Philanthropy must evolve with data, impact focus and new financial instruments, says minister, warning poor governance can shatter public trust.
BANGI: Philanthropy can no longer rely on traditional donations alone and must become data-driven and impact-focused, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan.
He said the humanitarian landscape now requires innovation, including hybrid financial instruments like blended finance and venture philanthropy.
“We can no longer rely on old practices,” Zulkifli said at the 2025 Strategic Partners Appreciation Ceremony of the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YaPEIM).
“We need to explore how these financial instruments can be used to bring greater benefits to society.”
He stated that all welfare initiatives should have clear measures of effectiveness rather than being based on perception alone.
“In changing our approach, we must focus on data and impact,” he added.
Zulkifli warned that poor governance and weak integrity can erode public trust in even long-established charitable organisations.
“Even a century of good work can be undone by a single act of wrongdoing or dishonesty, shattering public trust,” he said.
At the event, Zulkifli handed over education aid and presented appreciation certificates to YaPEIM’s strategic partners.
Also present were Deputy Minister Marhamah Rosli and YaPEIM chairman Abdul Khudus Mohd Naaim. – Bernama
