Track 1.2: Evolution of Eastern Giving: How has Asia been giving?

The changing nature of philanthropy in Asia and how it can be enhanced to become more impactful was the focus of this session, moderated by Annelotte Walsh.

His Excellency Mohamed Haji AlKhoori introduced the work of the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, which spans over 95 countries, including many in Asia. He emphasised the critical role of global knowledge exchange and partnerships in improving the effectiveness and sustainability of philanthropic efforts.

Charina Chan discussed the transformation of the Temasek Foundation over the years, which initially focused on capacity-building within Singapore but has now expanded to cross-border issues across Asia. She also addressed the talent perspective, calling for the professionalisation of philanthropy to maximise its impact.

Guosheng Deng outlined the evolution of Chinese philanthropy over three phases. Before 2004, it was minimal and informal. Corporate giving grew after the introduction of policies on private trusts, and from 2014, online platforms spurred broader individual participation. Deng noted that Chinese culture, rooted in Confucian values, traditionally prioritises local communities, which has posed a challenge for funding overseas philanthropy on top of policy constraints regarding fund use. While this is slowly changing, he urged Asian philanthropists to learn from global models, and called for more public education and collaboration across Asia to increase the impact of Asian philanthropy.

Laurence Lien reflected on broader trends in the region’s philanthropy, acknowledging its long-standing tradition of charity but advocating a shift towards more strategic, systemic giving. He emphasised that while Asian cultures are historically generous, the rate of giving has not caught up with the rise in income and much of the giving is still identity-based and lacking in knowledge exchange. Lien said a new generation of Asian philanthropists is emerging with a global outlook and a willingness to adopt innovative financing and collaboration across borders. He called for greater collaboration to tackle complex issues like education and climate change, where progress is still very slow despite the large amounts of investment.

The role of governments in philanthropy was another key topic of discussion. Chan explained that Temasek works alongside governments but maintains independence, acting as a “catalyst”. Lien noted that while philanthropists have the flexibility to innovate, governments have the regulatory power and resources to scale these solutions.

The session concluded with a consensus on the need for increased cross-border collaboration and the adoption of innovative approaches to philanthropy in Asia.