Tiger Beer clarifies role in charity concert amidst controversy

Tiger Beer has unequivocally denied allegations that it donates money to Chinese schools in Malaysia. The company clarified that its involvement in the Chinese Education Charity Concert (CECC) is limited to presenting local performing artists and not financial contributions. This announcement comes amidst controversy following the attendance of political figures at a recent fundraising event.

Tiger Beer’s Role in CECC

In a press statement issued yesterday, Tiger Beer emphasized its non-monetary involvement in the CECC, a platform established 30 years ago to help local communities raise funds for upgrading facilities at Chinese schools. The company stated, “As an alcohol brand, we do not make any monetary contributions to the school. Our role in the CECC is solely in presenting local performing artists for the concert that is organised for the donors.”

Tiger Beer highlighted that their communications and engagements are strictly with the Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBG) and the board members managing the schools. The company further noted that over RM413 million has been raised by local communities through the CECC platform without any financial aid from Tiger Beer.

The company also stressed the organizers’ commitment to ensuring that all programs and activities are respectful of religious and cultural sensitivities and comply with local regulations.

Political Controversy and Public Reaction

The recent controversy arose during a charity concert at SJK(C) Tche Min in Sungai Pelek, Sepang, which marked the CECC’s 30th anniversary. Parti Amanah Negara’s Sepang MP, Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu, attended the event and was seen onstage with a mock cheque displaying the Tiger Beer logo, alongside local Chinese newspaper Sin Chew Daily. The cheque indicated the sum of RM3,175,034.88 raised for the construction of a school hall.

Following the event, the Sepang parliamentary service centre clarified on Facebook that the school’s board of directors had invited all donors, including Aiman Athirah, who contributed RM100,000. The statement also explained that the donors, including Sungai Pelek residents, school alumni, and parents, purchased 160 tables at the fundraising dinner. It was highlighted that Tiger Beer only provided the platform for fundraising and managed the event, without making any donations.

DAP’s Sungai Pelek assemblyman Lwi Kian Keong, who contributed RM10,000, stated that he and Aiman Athirah only realized onstage that the mock cheque featured the Tiger Beer logo. Lwi criticized the school for not taking responsibility for the oversight and clarified that the lawmakers were unaware of the brewery’s involvement before the event.

Investigation by Education Ministry

The incident attracted criticism from rival party PAS, which questioned the propriety of Aiman Athirah’s participation in an event associated with an alcohol brand. PAS’s concerns led the Education Ministry to announce an investigation into the matter.

Education Deputy Minister Wong Kah Woh criticized PAS for distorting facts and playing up racial sentiments. Meanwhile, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, also the transport minister, suggested a cabinet review to revise the Education Ministry’s guidelines on school funding sources. Education minister Fadhlina Sidek later said her ministry would not review or grant exemptions for the guidelines on donations given to schools, including for vernacular schools..

The CECC has been a significant fundraising platform for Chinese schools since 1994, raising over RM413 million to date. In 2023 alone, the CECC raised RM26,354,318.50, supporting seven schools and contributing to UTAR Hospital’s development in Kampar, Perak. Despite the controversy, the concert continues to be a vital initiative for the Chinese community, demonstrating the public’s generosity and commitment to education.