PETALING JAYA: WCT Holdings Bhd, an investment holding company with businesses in engineering and construction, property development, as well as investment in and management of retail malls, hotels and business aviation, has launched its latest CSR initiative, "Uniting Hearts", in collaboration with Le Meridien Petaling Jaya.
This initiative empowers individuals with special needs from Gem and Bread Special Needs Support Group through hands-on skill development and real-world experiences.
It also strengthens the NGO’s long-term sustainability through various support efforts.
Under the WCTGives pillars of #EducationForAll and #WeCareTogether, "Uniting Hearts" reinforces WCT’s commitment to education, inclusivity and community empowerment.
As part of this initiative, WCT hosted Exploration Day at Le Meridien Petaling Jaya, where 13 participants (The GEMS) engaged in a hotel tour and a cupcake baking workshop led by Pastry Chef John.
This hands-on experience helped develop practical skills, fine motor coordination and self-confidence in a supportive environment.
Additionally, WCT contributed to Gem and Bread’s recent Chinese New Year bake sale, provided educational materials, groceries and sponsored food distribution packs to those in need within the organisation's extensive network, amounting to a total CSR contribution of RM26,000.00.
WCT group managing director Datuk Lee Tuck Fook said, “Through WCTGives’ “Uniting Hearts” initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
“By supporting Gem and Bread, we aim to empower individuals with special needs to thrive, helping them gain confidence, develop essential skills and integrate into society.”
The event was attended by WCT concession and hospitality business director Lai Cheng Yee, Le Meridien Petaling Jaya general manager Christopher Moore and WCT employee volunteers, who spent a meaningful morning engaging with The GEMS.
By integrating individuals with special needs into mainstream spaces, Uniting Hearts promotes greater public awareness and helps break down barriers to inclusivity.
Gem and Bread co-founder Teresa Tan said, “We are deeply thankful to WCT for championing inclusivity. Running an NGO to care for persons with special needs comes with financial challenges and this support enables us to continue providing care, education and skill development to those who need it most.
“This partnership not only brings hope but also tangible opportunities that empower our students and ease the burden on their families.”
As part of “Uniting Hearts”, WCT helped support Gem and Bread’s fundraising efforts by coordinating cookie orders for its Chinese New Year bake sale across its business divisions. Additionally, WCT is sponsoring 315 food packs for the underserved community through Gem and Bread’s soup kitchen, with employee volunteers participating in the upcoming food pack distribution.
Beyond a festive gesture, these efforts provide essential nourishment while enabling Gem and Bread to continue its meaningful work.
To further support Gem and Bread’s education and training programmes, WCT sponsored a laptop, baking class supplies and quilling art materials, enhancing skill development opportunities.
Additionally, to assist with daily operations, WCT also contributed grocery cash vouchers to support students’ daily meals and ease operational costs.
Lai said, “At WCT, true impact goes beyond financial support — it’s about creating opportunities that uplift and empower.
“Through WCTGives, we are honoured to collaborate with Gem and Bread, with invaluable support from Le Meridien Petaling Jaya as the venue sponsor.
“Their generosity has enriched Exploration Day, allowing The GEMS to gain essential skills through hands-on learning and real-world exposure in a welcoming environment.”
