TNG Digital and Visa donates RM1 million to United Voice to empower individuals with learning disabilities

Users who have purchased the first Malaysian CSR-linked Visa prepaid card via the Touch ‘n Go eWallet by TNG Digital contributed to employment upskilling opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities, enabled by United Voice

Aligned with the vision of empowering others, TNG Digital Sdn. Bhd. (“TNGD”) and Visa came together to raise RM1 million for United Voice, to support ongoing and future projects aimed at empowering persons with learning disabilities to lead normal lives.

[From left] Alan Ni, Chief Executive Officer of TNG Digital Sdn. Bhd., and [From left] Ng Kong Boon, Visa Country Manager for Malaysia present the RM1 million donation mock cheque to Johari Jamali, United Voice Treasurer, and Tan Mei Yee, United Voice Committee Member. This donation aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with learning disabilities, providing them with upskilling training opportunities.

In January 2023, TNG Digital, the operator of Touch ‘n Go eWallet, formed a strategic partnership with Visa, the world’s leader in digital payments, to launch the first corporate social responsibility (CSR)-linked Visa prepaid card in Malaysia (“TNG eWallet Visa card”). For every card applied, RM2 was donated to United Voice. The proceeds will be used by United Voice to run projects aimed at equipping individuals with learning disabilities with practical and soft skills through upskilling, training, and education, thereby increasing their employment opportunities.

“Aligned with the company’s commitment to championing inclusivity, this initiative serves as a testament to our ESG pillar of 'Treating People Fairly'," expressed Alan Ni, Chief Executive Officer of TNG Digital. He continued, "We take pride in the support from our loyal users who have purchased and contributed to this meaningful cause. It is humbling for us to facilitate this donation drive, and we have successfully collected a total of RM1 million in donations via this campaign. This outcome further underlines our dedication to improving the lives of those in need in Malaysia. This commitment extends beyond financial inclusion driven by the products and services we offer; it also encompasses our dedication to giving back to our community.”

[From right] Barbara Devaraj, United Voice Communications & Fundraising Co-ordinator, is showing [From left] Ng Kong Boon, Visa Country Manager for Malaysia and [middle] Alan Ni, Chief Executive Officer of TNG Digital Sdn. Bhd. around the training centre of United Voice during the RM1 million donation mock cheque presentation event.

The RM1 million donation will be allocated to various activities organised by United Voice, aimed at equipping individuals with learning disabilities with valuable skills and facilitating their employment through partnerships with companies. Starting October 2023, United Voice has utilised a portion of the funds for ‘Skills Training for Employment’, focusing on social interaction, communication, basic skills, job competence, personal creativity, basic computer skills, communication skills, and on-the-job training. Additionally, the funds have also supported the ‘Health and Wellness Programme’, promoting functional independence through activities such as balance, muscular strength, natural movement, coordination, flexibility, mobility training, and games. Some individuals have even demonstrated the ability to lead and guide others through this training. The remaining balance is reserved for future activities in 2024.

With the support of these contributions, individuals with learning disabilities are given the opportunity to learn and acquire valuable skills through programmes such as 'Skills Training for Employment’ and ‘Health and Wellness Programme’, organised by United Voice.

“The support we receive from TNG Digital and Visa is instrumental in our mission, emphasising that we are not alone in our endeavours to build a more inclusive society for individuals with learning disabilities. United Voice extends heartfelt gratitude for your belief in our mission. We appreciate your partnership and look forward to the positive impact we can achieve together, paving the way for a more inclusive society,” said Johari Jamali, United Voice Treasurer.

The Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa card is unique not just because it is the first CSR-linked card, but also because its design features an artwork by Damien Wong, a talented artist from United Voice who was diagnosed with autism at a young age, adding extra depth to the initiative. The painting, consisting mainly of splashes of colours in blue, green, and yellow, depicts Damien’s view of the world – “In my eyes, this is how the world looks like to me, a splash of colours”. The proceeds from the company’s purchase of this painting go directly to Damien.

Ng Kong Boon, Visa Country Manager for Malaysia, said: “We are pleased that our partnership with TNGD not only fast-tracks the adoption of digital payments, but also facilitates the betterment of those in need. The achievement of raising RM1 million for United Voice speaks to our commitment to advance sustainability in the country where we live and operate. Visa’s purpose is to uplift everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid. Through our engagement with clients and partners, we will continue to operate in a way that is ethical, responsible, and sustainable.”

As the first numberless card in Malaysia, the Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa card not only provides stronger privacy with card credentials locked in the Touch ‘n Go eWallet and offers enhanced card security toggles. With this card acting as a complementary payment channel to the eWallet, users will be able to make payments even at merchants who do not have a Duitnow QR code. The card also allows users to withdraw cash at automated teller machines (ATMs) and expands the user’s eWallet payment options internationally.