Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB) – a promoter of Sarawak, Malaysia, as an international meetings destination – offers a corporate social responsibility (CSR) program that allows organizations to spend time helping local communities by providing a better future for others during conventions.
“We are pleased to work with organizations, such as Sarawak Forestry Corp., that have put effort in creating CSR programs for Sarawak,” said Mike Cannon, managing director, SCB. “CSR plays an important role in promoting a warmer image of an organization and conventions in general. Having goals and a vision that go beyond products and profits by actively participating in social responsibility programs portrays a friendlier image to clients and the general public.”
Organizations can choose their level of involvement in a CSR program, such as donating money or employee time to charities, putting together a real plan to produce products or providing services that are in the best interests of the society. These include ideas like using safe materials in design and manufacturing, corporate environmental initiatives, and other factors, such as job creation and economic development.
“CSR is a commitment that works best when it comes from the heart. At SCB, we encourage your organization to put in the time and efforts required to reap lasting and meaningful rewards in socially responsible activities. Look at CSR as a win-win situation; a win for your organization and a win for the communities you help,” added Cannon.
The most successful corporate social responsibility programs integrate show a true commitment toward a cause. Such examples include a company that uses sustainable materials in their products, donates financial resources to environmental causes and allows employees to take paid time off for volunteering at environmental charities. This displays a commitment to the environment that goes beyond any single CSR initiative.
Subject to an organization’s preference and objectives, SCB can help create a socially responsible activity from scratch. For instance, being part of a long house community or a remote village and working hand-in-hand with the local people in constructing facilities, such as medical clinics, schools or bridges. At the same time, learn about paddy planting, how to fish with bamboo traps, creating a masterpiece of local arts and crafts, and taking part in local entertainment, such as traditional music, games and dance.
SCB’s existing CSR programs:
Heart to heart with orangutans
The orangutan is a much-loved international icon of the rainforest. Highly endangered, irrefutably rare and as intelligent as a small child, this species is found only in Borneo and Sumatra. Wildlife conservationists have been fighting against the extinction of this species for decades. Try out a day in the life of the unsung heroes who sacrifice time and effort to bring these gentle giants of Borneo’s forests back from the brink of extinction. Get down and dirty with the orangutan keepers at Matang Wildlife Centre and share a day of joy with these intelligent, soulful animals that were once found in abundance throughout Sarawak.
Habitat for Humanity
Generosity and acts of kindness are what make us human. Be part of Sarawak and her aid for her disadvantaged through this incentive to help provide a better future for Sarawakians in need. Help build clinics, school buildings and other essential facilities in poor communities. Take the opportunity to be a part of a longhouse community and share their lives whilst you help bring basic amenities to them.
Swiflet conservation program
Edible nest swiftlets have been part of Sarawak culture for centuries, so much so that the species almost went extinct from over-harvesting of their nests. But not to worry, they are back from the brink because of the efforts of the government and biologists alike. This means the swiftlet industry is thriving, providing employment and revenue for Sarawak. This program showcases sustainable swiftlet management and conservation in Sarawak while creating awareness and enhancing knowledge on the importance of such conservation efforts. Explore the caves and meet the locals while learning about the history of birds nest trading and industry, including the production process. An educational experience with a whole load of adventure, it will be an unforgettable walk through the limestone forest. A fairly high fitness level is required for this activity.
Benefits of CSR:
Prominence in social media
In order to build the organization’s brand and visibility, social media is used to promote the organization’s social responsibility activities. It creates a positive branding image and allows the organization to engage with the audience on a deeper level beyond its products and services.
Great for public relations
Public relations is crucial in developing an organization’s image and how others will perceive it. Organizations that publicize their social responsibility activities through the media are one step closer to powerful branding, media publicity and contributing to the development of local communities.
Ease in government relations
Organization’s that practice CSR have a better experience in dealing with politicians and government regulations. As opposed to businesses that lack CSR programs, they often find themselves being questioned and probed by public service organizations. CSR projects a positive public perception toward and organization and is less likely to face inquiry from competing organizations and governmental bodies.
Boosting positivity in the workplace
Among the benefits of exercising social responsibility in the workplace is the positivity it builds for the team. Employees will feel more enthusiastic and engaged in their work, knowing that their organization is also working toward a greater cause. This in turn builds teamwork and camaraderie amongst employees, leading to a more productive and happier organization.
