UOB Raises Over $2.6 Million for Charity at Lunar New Year Celebrations
In a remarkable display of corporate social responsibility, United Overseas Bank (UOB) successfully raised more than $2.6 million for charitable causes during its annual Lunar New Year celebrations. The event, held in collaboration with approximately 1,200 business clients, underscores the bank’s steadfast commitment to fostering meaningful change within the community. Through a series of engaging activities, including art workshops and a fundraising gala dinner, UOB not only celebrated the Lunar New Year but also made a substantial impact on various charitable initiatives.
The funds collected will be directed towards supporting a range of vital causes, including the arts, children’s welfare, and educational programs. Beneficiaries include prominent organizations such as The Business Times Budding Artists Fund, The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund, Central Singapore CDC, Lakeside Family Services, and Ren Ci Hospital. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds will aid local enterprises in their innovation endeavors under the UOB-Singapore Management University Asian Enterprise Institute.
Mr. Wee Ee Cheong, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of UOB, expressed his pride in the tradition of combining art, philanthropy, and community engagement. “Our tradition of combining art, philanthropy, and community engagement reflects our commitment to doing right by our stakeholders,” he stated. “Through the generosity of our clients, we continue to drive meaningful change by supporting children, education, and the arts. Together, we are fostering a more inclusive and culturally vibrant society.”
A significant highlight of the fundraising efforts was the auction of two unique artworks during the gala dinner on February 6, 2025. These pieces were created through a collaborative effort involving UOB clients who participated in an art workshop on January 23, 2025. Mr. Wee himself applied the finishing touches to these art pieces, adding a personal touch to the creative process.
The first artwork, titled “Eternal Spring,” is a commissioned piece by Karina D. Simon, the 2022 UOB Painting of the Year award winner. This contemporary piece uses colored pencils on paper to depict the Chinese character “永” as a bonsai plant. The artwork captures the essence of spring, symbolizing inspiration and positivity that endures even as seasons change.
The second piece, “Everlasting Blooms,” is a stunning 3-D paper sculpture crafted by renowned paper artist Ceres Lau. This intricate work evokes a sense of beauty and vibrancy, transcending the fleeting nature of time. It serves as a symbol of abundance, wealth, and longevity, representing a world filled with opportunities, hopes, and vitality.
The auction saw spirited bidding, with Mr. Low Kok Ann, CEO of Hafary Holdings Ltd, securing “Eternal Spring” for $250,888. Meanwhile, Mr. Neo Kah Kiat, BBM, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Neo Group Limited, won “Everlasting Blooms” with a bid of $238,000. Both gentlemen expressed their enthusiasm for leveraging business strengths and artistic appreciation to contribute to the community.
Mr. Low Kok Ann remarked, “We were inspired to leverage the strength of business and our appreciation of the arts, to contribute collectively to the community. Through UOB’s extensive ASEAN trade network, we will continue to foster strong connectivity not just within the business community but also build a more inclusive society through UOB’s commitment to worthy causes such as this initiative.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Mr. Neo Kah Kiat added, “In partnering UOB through the years, we have formed not just strong business connections, but also jointly supported the community together. We appreciate these meaningful initiatives that UOB holds annually, which uplift our community and strengthen our business networks and bonds.”
Further bolstering the fundraising efforts, two other UOB Commercial Banking clients, Mr. Ching Chiat Kwong, Chairman of Jadeite Properties Pte Ltd, and Mr. Kelvin Lim of LHN Group, each donated $250,000. Their contributions underscore the shared commitment to supporting the local community through this annual initiative.
The success of this year’s Lunar New Year celebrations is a testament to UOB’s unwavering dedication to creating a positive societal impact. By integrating art, philanthropy, and community engagement, UOB continues to set a benchmark for corporate responsibility. The funds raised will undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of many, promoting a more inclusive and culturally enriched society.
As UOB looks to the future, it remains committed to nurturing partnerships that drive meaningful change. The bank’s efforts not only support critical community needs but also reinforce the importance of collaboration between businesses and the communities they serve. Through initiatives like these, UOB exemplifies how corporations can play a pivotal role in building a better, more connected world.
The Role of Art in Philanthropy
Art has long been recognized as a powerful medium for expressing cultural values and fostering community connections. In the context of UOB’s Lunar New Year celebrations, the integration of art into the fundraising efforts served multiple purposes. Firstly, it provided a platform for talented artists to showcase their work, thereby elevating the profile of local talent. Secondly, it engaged participants in a creative process that went beyond mere financial contributions, allowing them to become active contributors to the final artworks.
The art workshop held on January 23, 2025, was particularly noteworthy. More than 40 clients participated, working alongside professional artists to create the two auctioned pieces. This hands-on involvement not only enhanced the value of the artworks but also deepened the participants’ emotional connection to the cause. Mr. Wee Ee Cheong’s contribution of applying the finishing touches further personalized the experience, making it a memorable and impactful event for all involved.
“Eternal Spring” and “Everlasting Blooms” are not just artistic creations; they are symbols of hope and resilience. Each piece tells a story of continuity and renewal, themes that resonate deeply with the spirit of the Lunar New Year. By auctioning these artworks, UOB not only raised substantial funds but also highlighted the intrinsic value of art in driving social change.
Strengthening Community Bonds
One of the most significant outcomes of UOB’s Lunar New Year celebrations is the strengthening of community bonds. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, from business leaders to artists and community members, all united by a common goal. This collective effort underscores the power of collaboration in achieving meaningful social impact.
Mr. Low Kok Ann and Mr. Neo Kah Kiat’s participation exemplifies how businesses can leverage their resources and networks to contribute positively to society. Their winning bids at the auction demonstrate a willingness to invest in causes that align with their corporate values. Moreover, their comments reflect a broader understanding of the role businesses play in fostering inclusive growth and development.
The donations from Mr. Ching Chiat Kwong and Mr. Kelvin Lim further illustrate the ripple effect of UOB’s initiatives. By encouraging clients to participate actively, UOB not only amplifies its fundraising capabilities but also cultivates a culture of giving back. This approach ensures that the benefits extend far beyond the immediate recipients, creating a lasting legacy of community support.
Future Directions and Commitments
Looking ahead, UOB remains committed to expanding its philanthropic efforts. The success of this year’s Lunar New Year celebrations sets a high standard for future events, providing a blueprint for integrating art, philanthropy, and community engagement. As the bank continues to explore innovative ways to support local communities, it will undoubtedly draw inspiration from the achievements of this year’s initiatives.
Moreover, UOB’s partnership with institutions like the UOB-Singapore Management University Asian Enterprise Institute highlights its dedication to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. By channeling funds towards innovation efforts, the bank is investing in the future economic landscape of the region. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the impact of its charitable activities is both immediate and sustainable.
