Education is a passport to a better future—but what happens to those who have no one to help them along the way? For orphans in Malaysia, the dream of higher education is often out of reach, blocked by financial struggles and systemic barriers. Without access to learning, many are left in a cycle of poverty with limited opportunities.
To bridge this gap, Raja Singham, Managing Director and Chief Future Officer of BAC Education has launched OrphanAid—an initiative dedicated to empowering orphans across Malaysia with access to tertiary education through a sustainable funding model.
More Than Charity
OrphanAid is not just another charitable endeavor. It is a bold, structured movement that invests in the potential of Malaysia’s youth. The programme guarantees a 75% bursary for eligible orphans, with the remaining 25% covered via low-interest loans from the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) or sponsorships from donors. Offered through the 6 institutions under the Group - BAC, IACT, Reliance, Veritas University College, UNIMY and BAC College (singapore), OrphanAid opens doors to a wide range of Pre-U, Diploma and Degree programmes in Business, Media & Communications, Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary Arts, Computer Science & Engineering, Education & Early Childhood, Information Technology, and Psychology.
OrphanAid’s funding model is both sustainable and impactful. It partners with universities, colleges, and private donors to create a long-term support system that guarantees orphans higher education opportunities, regardless of race, religion, or background. The initiative aims to support 1,000 orphans in its first year, ensuring that these young minds receive education and a chance to contribute meaningfully to society.
In an exclusive interview with Malaysiakini, Raja Singham shared, “Many of our students continue their studies from their orphanages or hometowns without needing to relocate. We provide laptops to support them, allowing them to study remotely from Sabah, Sarawak, or anywhere else. They can pursue degrees in business, accounting, psychology, and more—all while saving on accommodation, transport, and living expenses, yet still receiving a quality education.”
The Power of Collaboration: Rotary’s Role in OrphanAid
A key partnership with Rotary Malaysia strengthens OrphanAid’s reach and effectiveness. Leveraging Rotary’s extensive network, the initiative can identify eligible students, provide additional mentorship, and facilitate a seamless support system. Additionally, donors contributing through Yayasan Kelab-Kelab Rotary Malaysia (YKKRM) receive tax exemptions, adding an extra layer of transparency and accountability to the fund’s disbursement.
Raja Singham underscores the importance of this collaboration: “This is a national effort. Every ringgit donated, every institution that joins us, and every orphan who graduates becomes proof that compassion and collaboration can transform lives.”
Opportunities for Every Student
“We offer a range of academic and skills-based programs to ensure that every student, regardless of their qualifications, has an opportunity to succeed. For those pursuing traditional education, we provide foundation and degree programs that require five or three SPM credits, depending on the course. However, for students who do not meet academic criteria or prefer hands-on learning, we offer skills-based training through initiatives like Reliance Gerai BAC.”
“This program teaches students how to run a food stall, covering everything from branding and pricing to food preparation, with support from our culinary school. Participants learn to make popular dishes while gaining practical experience in managing a business,” explained Raja Singham.
For those not keen on a diploma or degree, short courses in hospitality lead directly to job placements, ensuring practical, skills-based education translates into employment or self-sufficiency. Who knows? Some might become successful entrepreneurs—or even social media sensations!
The Journey to Higher Education: Eligibility & Application
To ensure that OrphanAid benefits those who need it most, strict eligibility criteria are in place. Applicants must:
Be between 18 and 25 years old
Be residing in a registered orphanage
Meet the academic entry requirements of the selected institution
Provide transcripts, proof of orphanage residence, and financial need documentation
A dedicated committee will review applications, prioritising academic merit and socioeconomic needs. This ensures that recipients receive assistance and are committed to making the most of their education.
A Vision Rooted in Experience and Community Impact
Following its ethos of giving back, the BAC Education Group has transformed the lives of more than 500,000 people from B40 communities at PPRs, UNHCR refugees, migrant workers, persons with disabilities, Orang Asli Settlements, to islanders in Sabah and in households headed by women. This spirit of service to make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate, stems from our “Impact” pillar, one of the four pillars of the “Learn Different” philosophy.OrphanAid is more than a program; it is a movement for change. It calls on Malaysians—individuals, corporations, and institutions—to take part in this transformative initiative. Whether through donations, partnerships, or mentorship programs, every contribution counts in shaping a future where no child is left behind.
To learn more, apply, or donate, visit https://www.bac.edu.my/orphan-aid/ or contact 012-2030-562.