Carlsberg, Huazong award scholarships to 333 students

Carlsberg Malaysia, in strategic collaboration with the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong), has once again demonstrated its commitment to educational empowerment through the Carlsberg Huazong Education Fund (CEF). This year, RM1 million was disbursed to 333 deserving students nationwide, bringing the total allocation to RM3 million for 999 students between 2021 and 2025.

Students from all 13 states benefited from this initiative, with the highest number of recipients in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor (73), followed by Penang and Perak (27 each), and Johor (25). These disbursements were facilitated through local Chinese Assembly Halls, ensuring that support reached communities across urban and rural areas alike. The CEF primarily supports students from B40 and M40 households, including orphans, individuals from single-parent families, and students supporting family members with special needs.

From interest-free loans to scholarships

Launched in 1998, the CEF has evolved from offering interest-free loans to providing full scholarships, reflecting Carlsberg Malaysia’s long-standing dedication to education. The transformation of the fund underscores a broader goal of nurturing academic talent and breaking barriers to higher education.

“Together with Huazong Management, we are humbled to extend financial support to 333 students nationwide,” said Pearl Lai, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Director of Carlsberg Malaysia. “Our continual support for educational empowerment reflects our Brewing for a Better Today and Tomorrow commitment, ensuring that education continues to be a gateway to a brighter, more equitable future.” She added that the initiative promotes inclusivity and ensures that learning opportunities remain accessible to students from all walks of life.

Voices of gratitude and determination

For many recipients, the fund has offered more than just financial relief—it has been a source of inspiration and validation. Kirtina A/P Muniandy, a Service Economy student at UNIMAS, expressed gratitude, saying, “Receiving this education fund is a form of affirmation and encouragement. Knowing that my hard work is noticed motivates me to pursue my goals with greater determination.”

Angeline Tan, a Polytechnic Kuching student, echoed this sentiment: “Seeing my mother’s sacrifices has always driven me, and being selected for this fund shows there are people and organisations in Malaysia who genuinely care about students like us. It strengthens my resolve to become an accountant who can one day give back to my family and community.”

Similarly, Caleb Sawing Thomas from Kolej Vokasional Kuching shared, “This support from Carlsberg Malaysia and Huazong is truly life‑changing. I’m even more driven to finish my culinary training and build a career where I can give back in meaningful ways.”

Driving a sustainable and equitable future

Carlsberg Malaysia and Huazong’s initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #4.3, which calls for equal access to quality and affordable technical, vocational, and tertiary education. By targeting students in financial need and promoting gender and regional inclusivity, the CEF reflects a strong commitment to societal upliftment through education.

“Education is a powerful tool for societal transformation,” said Huazong President Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Goh Tuan Chuan. “With Carlsberg Malaysia’s steadfast support, we are paving the way for a future where no deserving student is left behind.”

As the fund marks a new milestone, its impact on nearly 1,500 students since inception continues to grow. Carlsberg Malaysia and Huazong remain resolute in their mission—to unlock the potential of Malaysia’s youth and to build a more prosperous, educated society for generations to come.