IN today's interconnected world, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from a peripheral concern to a central tenet of corporate strategy, embodying a long-term commitment to sustainability and future generations.
Companies increasingly recognise their responsibilities extend beyond shareholders to encompass the broader community, environment, and intergenerational well-being.
This holistic approach not only fosters goodwill but also drives sustainable business success.
UEM Edgenta Bhd exemplifies this philosophy through its ‘Saving Animals, Serving Communities’ campaign and its partnership with Zoo Negara, demonstrating the profound impact of compassionate initiatives on societal progress, environmental preservation, and corporate vitality.
UEM Edgenta managing director and chief executive officer Syahrunizam Samsudin, emphasises: “Our commitment to CSR is not just about fulfilling obligations; it’s about nurturing the ecosystem that surrounds us, which ultimately supports our very existence as a business.
“This reflects the company’s dedication to ensuring our initiatives align with and enhance community well-being while securing a sustainable legacy for future generations.”
Through the ‘Saving Animals, Serving Communities’ campaign, UEM Edgenta acknowledges the intrinsic link between biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and human prosperity.
This initiative not only protects wildlife and ecosystems but also ensures long-term sustainability for communities.
The company believes that small yet meaningful actions, such as protecting vulnerable animals or reducing waste, can inspire greater societal change and encourage others to care for the planet.
A central feature of this campaign is the Pet Food Project (PFP), a collaboration with The Lost Food Project.
UEM Edgenta, as the sole corporate partner, has rescued 12,724 kg of surplus pet food since the initiative’s inception, preventing 36,935 kg of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
This effort exemplifies how CSR initiatives can address immediate environmental and social challenges while contributing to global climate action.
Additionally, the company’s enduring partnership with Zoo Negara, renewed annually since 2021, underscores its dedication to wildlife preservation and public education.
Through this collaboration, UEM Edgenta has supported Zoo Negara’s animal care efforts and maintenance needs, ensuring the welfare of its residents and creating impactful learning opportunities for the public to better understand biodiversity conservation.
These efforts align with the company’s vision of fostering harmony between nature and humanity.
UEM Edgenta’s CSR initiatives extend beyond animal welfare, reflecting its broader dedication to uplifting communities.
The ‘Potong Royong’ programme, in collaboration with the Society For The Prevention of Cruelty To Animals (SPCA), has been a pivotal part of its efforts.
This initiative successfully neutered 680 animals, including over 500 cats, addressing the stray animal population and promoting responsible pet ownership.
Neutering offers numerous benefits, including reducing the overpopulation of stray cats, easing the strain on animal shelters, and minimising health risks such as the spread of diseases.
It also contributes to improving the overall quality of life for both stray animals and the communities they inhabit, fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals.
Additionally, the ‘Jalinan Kasih Edgenta’ programme provides essential support to asnaf families during Ramadan, fostering inclusivity and care for underprivileged communities.
This initiative included distributing essential food, grocery vouchers, and cash contributions to more than 475 asnaf families across various locations.
The company also organised shopping trips and iftar sessions for orphans, spreading joy and fostering a sense of belonging among underprivileged groups.
These efforts illustrate the company’s vision of CSR as an enduring investment in societal and environmental sustainability.
Syahrunizam notes, “Every act of kindness creates ripples of impact, strengthening the bond between corporates and communities.
“It is this bond that sustains both businesses and the society they serve, ensuring a shared path toward a sustainable future.”
As UEM Edgenta continues to align its corporate goals with societal values, it recognises that CSR is not just an obligation but a strategic imperative.
By integrating CSR into core strategies, businesses can drive meaningful change, building thriving communities and safeguarding the planet for future generations.
UEM Edgenta’s ‘Saving Animals, Serving Communities’ campaign, alongside its collaboration with Zoo Negara, exemplifies how corporate compassion can create positive ripples throughout society and the environment.
By aligning business goals with the needs of the community, UEM Edgenta has demonstrated how compassionate initiatives lead to thriving communities, a healthy planet, and resilient businesses.
