HEINEKEN empowers rural Sabah communities

Since 2017, HEINEKEN Malaysia, in partnership with KupiKupi FM, Soroptimist International Region of Malaysia (SIROM), and Hopes Malaysia, has brought clean water to rural communities in Sabah. By establishing rainwater harvesting and gravity water systems in eight villages, over 7,000 residents now have reliable access to clean water, improving their daily lives and agriculture.

“Today, our village enjoys water supply for our daily home needs, crops, and fish farming,” shared Stefban Sindeh, a resident of Kampung Kiau Taburi, Kota Belud. “Having access to a clean and safe water supply means a lot to us and we thank our partners from Hopes Malaysia and HEINEKEN Malaysia for their support!”

The initiative also trains villagers to manage and maintain the systems, ensuring sustainability. Some of these systems directly support community farms, aiding food production even during dry seasons.

Empowering women

In collaboration with SIROM, HEINEKEN Malaysia has empowered women in Kampung Gana with organic farming skills, utilizing two acres of land connected to a gravity-fed water system. This initiative has improved health and well-being by providing nutritious food and enabled women to earn additional income by selling excess produce at local markets.

“With SIROM and HEINEKEN Malaysia’s support, we’ve started farming and growing our own food,” said Laisah Udan, Head of Kampung Gana Women’s Association. “Now, we have fresh produce straight from our land and clean water every day. We’ve also registered our business to sell our excess produce at the local market! Each harvest helps us become more self-sufficient, strengthening our community.”

Close to 40 women have been trained in sustainable farming techniques, fostering financial independence and community resilience.

HEINEKEN Cares 2024

Building on its seven-year legacy, HEINEKEN Malaysia launched the latest phase of its HEINEKEN Cares programme in November 2024. The campaign supports four NGOs focusing on water access and food security. For every RM10 donated, the brewer will contribute an additional RM40 to amplify the impact of contributions.

Community members and supporters are encouraged to participate in the campaign by visiting sokong.org/campaigns/heineken-cares-2024.

HEINEKEN Malaysia’s impactful work underscores its commitment to uplifting rural communities and fostering sustainable development. For more information, visit heinekenmalaysia.com or sparkfoundation.com.my.