KUCHING: ZICO Trust (M) Berhad (ZICO Trust Malaysia) has partnered with Suriana Welfare Society (SURIANA) by adopting its Academic and Training Centre (PAL 5) at Desa Mentari, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
In a statement, it said the adoption supports SURIANA’s continuous efforts to empower disadvantaged children and families through education, social support and development within the community.
“Beyond creating lasting and meaningful social impact, the partnership reinforces ZICO Trust Malaysia’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives.
“The contribution will fund a range of programmes at PAL 5, spanning educational support and academic enrichment, digital learning, life skills development, psychosocial well-being and community engagement for the children who attend the centre.”
ZICO Trust (M) Berhad chief financial officer Dinesh Menon said the trust is pleased to be part of the collaboration in support of disadvantaged families and children at Desa Mentari.
“We believe that education and community development can help create stronger opportunities for everyone, and we are honoured to work with SURIANA in making a practical difference where it matters most.”
SURIANA’s PAL centres were established to provide safe, structured and empowering learning spaces for children in B40 communities.
Built within low-cost housing areas such as Desa Mentari, they offer free tuition in core subjects like English, Bahasa Malaysia and Mathematics, alongside life skills development and parent empowerment, all while giving children a secure place to be after school.
Through this community-based approach, SURIANA continues to strengthen learning outcomes, build resilience and create better pathways for children growing up in vulnerable environments.
Founder and chairman of SURIANA Welfare Society Dr James Nayagam said for the many children in Desa Menteri, the centre is more than a place to study – it is a safe space where they are supported, encouraged and given the chance to imagine a different future
“Consistent and lasting support allows us to walk alongside these children in their academic growth, personal development and overall well-being, and to help break the cycle that holds so many of these children back.”
Beyond that, ZICO Trust Malaysia will also conduct periodic financial literacy talks for parents and families in the Desa Mentari community.
It aims to equip families with everyday money-management skills, from budgeting and saving to managing debt and guarding against scams, reinforcing SURIANA’s belief that empowering parents is key to lasting stability for their children.
“This partnership reflects the value of purposeful collaboration between the corporate sector and community-based organisations in meeting real needs on the ground.
“By adopting PAL 5 Desa Mentari, ZICO Trust Malaysia and SURIANA are helping to build stronger foundations for children, families and the wider community.”
