Kind Borneo Launched with Strong Support to Empower NGOs and Strengthen Communities Across Borneo

4 October 2025

KUCHING: The highly anticipated launch of Kind Borneo, a transformative corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, was a resounding success, bringing together 17 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and attracting over 100 participants dedicated to strengthening communities across Sarawak and the wider Borneo region.

Organised by MACEOS (Malaysian Association of Convention and Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers) Sarawak Region and Borneo Business Connect, the inaugural event was held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) and strategically co-located with Business Events Sarawak's Legacy 360 Conference. The launch highlighted a shared commitment: to elevate the role of NGOs and embed meaningful CSR initiatives into the fabric of the business events industry.

The programme featured engaging NGO pitch presentations in the morning, followed by two insightful expert panel discussions. "Forging Effective Partnerships – Aligning CSR Vision with NGO Impact," moderated by Kingston Khoo, examined how businesses can collaborate effectively with NGOs to develop sustainable support models. The second panel, "Beyond Grants – A Strategic Blueprint for NGO Success with Government-Linked Foundations," moderated by Dato Jacqueline Fong, offered practical advice on securing and managing grants, while sharing inspiring success stories from NGOs.

Kind Borneo was founded by Borneo Business Connect directors Datuk Dr Gandhi and Gracie Geikie, supported by esteemed advisors Datin Rosemarie Wong Jabu, Dato Jacqueline Fong, and Datin Dona Drury Wee. Collectively, they bring decades of leadership in community development, philanthropy, and social impact.

In her remarks, Amelia Roziman, CEO of Business Events Sarawak, emphasised the broader vision. She stated, "Business events hold immense potential to be a force for good, leaving a legacy that extends well beyond the confines of the conference. By co-locating Kind Borneo with our Legacy 360 Conference, we are providing a practical platform for our industry to engage directly with local NGOs and understand their needs. This transforms CSR from a mere concept into tangible, sustainable, and impactful support for communities."

The event also featured a vibrant NGO Gallery, showcasing 17 associations and community-based enterprises, offering visibility for their initiatives and opening new avenues for collaboration with business and government stakeholders.

The successful launch of Kind Borneo was made possible through the support of BCCK, Place Borneo, IDA, Team Magnifico, and Catcity Holidays.

With its impactful debut, Kind Borneo is set to become a sustainable movement, empowering NGOs, strengthening partnerships, and building lasting legacies for communities across Borneo.