TNG Digital and Visa donates US$251,000 to United Voice to empower individuals with learning disabilities

• For each card application, $0.43 was contributed to United Voice
• Launched first CSR-linked Visa prepaid card in Malaysia

Aligned with the vision of empowering others, TNG Digital Sdn. Bhd. and Visa have joined forces to raise US$251,000 (RM1 million) for United Voice. This collaboration supports ongoing and future projects aiming to empower individuals with learning disabilities for more normalised lives.

In January 2023, TNG Digital, operator of Touch ‘n Go eWallet, partnered with Visa to launch the first corporate social responsibility (CSR)-linked Visa prepaid card in Malaysia, the TNG eWallet Visa card. For each card application, US$0.43 (RM2) was donated to United Voice. These proceeds will be utilised to run projects equipping individuals with learning disabilities with practical and soft skills through upskilling, training, and education, enhancing their employment opportunities.

Alan Ni, CEO of TNG Digital, emphasised the initiative's alignment with the company’s commitment to inclusivity, reflecting their ESG pillar of 'Treating People Fairly'. 

"We take pride in the support from our loyal users who have purchased and contributed to this meaningful cause. It is humbling for us to facilitate this donation drive, and we have successfully collected a total of US$251,000 (RM1 million) in donations via this campaign,” he added.

[RM1 = US$0.21]

“This outcome further underlines our dedication to improving the lives of those in need in Malaysia. This commitment extends beyond financial inclusion driven by the products and services we offer; it also encompasses our dedication to giving back to our community,” Ni said.

The RM1 million donation will be allocated to various activities organised by United Voice, aiming to equip individuals with learning disabilities with valuable skills and facilitate their employment through partnerships with companies. Starting October 2023, United Voice has utilized a portion of the funds for ‘Skills Training for Employment,’ focusing on social interaction, communication, basic skills, job competence, personal creativity, basic computer skills, communication skills, and on-the-job training.

Additionally, the funds have also supported the ‘Health and Wellness Programme,’ promoting functional independence through activities such as balance, muscular strength, natural movement, coordination, flexibility, mobility training, and games. Some individuals have even demonstrated the ability to lead and guide others through this training. The remaining balance is reserved for future activities in 2024.

Johari Jamali, United Voice treasurer stressed that the support received from TNG Digital and Visa has been instrumental in its mission, emphasising that the firm is not alone in its endeavours to build a more inclusive society for individuals with learning disabilities. 

The Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa card is unique not just because it is the first CSR-linked card but also because its design features artwork by Damien Wong, a talented artist from United Voice diagnosed with autism at a young age, adding extra depth to the initiative. The painting, consisting mainly of splashes of colors in blue, green, and yellow, depicts Damien’s view of the world – “In my eyes, this is how the world looks to me, a splash of colors”.

The proceeds from the company’s purchase of this painting go directly to Damien.

Ng Kong Boon, Visa country manager for Malaysia, said: “We are pleased that our partnership with TNG Digital not only fast-tracks the adoption of digital payments, but also facilitates the betterment of those in need. The achievement of raising RM1 million for United Voice speaks to our commitment to advance sustainability in the country where we live and operate.” 

“Visa’s purpose is to uplift everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid. Through our engagement with clients and partners, we will continue to operate in a way that is ethical, responsible, and sustainable,” Ng said.

As the first numberless card in Malaysia, the Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa card not only provides stronger privacy with card credentials locked in the Touch ‘n Go eWallet and offers enhanced card security toggles. With this card acting as a complementary payment channel to the eWallet, users will be able to make payments even at merchants who do not have a Duitnow QR code. The card also allows users to withdraw cash at automated teller machines (ATMs) and expands the user’s eWallet payment options internationally.

For more information about the Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa card, visit https://www.touchngo.com.my/tng-visa-card/