Who We Are
At the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, our philosophy of giving to society is never an afterthought, but a steadfast commitment woven into the very fabric of our past, present and future.
The Beginnings
The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation was founded with a resolute vision to make quality education accessible to all, continuing the legacy of the Sunway Education Trust Fund. The transformation of the Trust into a not-for-profit entity enabled the transfer of all shares to the Foundation to be held in perpetuity and never divested – ensuring that resources are continually reinvested into scholarships, research, and community programmes.
As a tax-exempt institution under Subsection 44(6) of the Income Tax Act 1967, the Foundation operates under strict governance and transparency standards, reinforcing public trust and ensuring that its resources are managed with the highest level of integrity. Guided by the belief that education has the power to uplift lives and strengthen communities, the Foundation is deeply committed to empowering future generations through the lasting impact of education.
Education: A Lifelong Commitment to Enriching Lives
Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah KBE AO, Founder and Trustee of the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation and Founder and Chairman of Sunway Group, believes that success in the field of education means much more than university rankings and enrolment numbers.
Sunway’s commitment to education extends far beyond the business realm. For years, Sunway has made significant contributions to society, recognising education as a vital force of empowerment and positive lasting change.
Sunway Education Trust: Ensuring Educational Advancement and Institutional Growth
The Sunway Education Trust Fund was established in March 1997 to undertake a pivotal role – to manage Sunway Education Group’s operating surpluses to fund scholarships and grants, and strategic reinvestment into its institutions for the benefit of students.
Transitioning to JCF: A Lasting Commitment to Education
In 2010, the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation succeeded the Sunway Education Trust Fund and received Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah KBE AO’s entire equity stake in Sunway Education Group, worth several billion Ringgit today, to the Foundation in perpetuity. The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation’s learning institutions include Sunway University, Sunway Colleges, and Sunway International Schools, amongst others.
Board of Trustees: Ensuring Neutrality in Governance
Governed by a distinguished Board of Trustees, the Foundation aims to safeguard these institutions for the purpose of providing and sustaining quality education for present and future generations of students. In line with the spirit of the Foundation, a good education at the highest level should be accessible to all deserving individuals, regardless of their background.
Foundation Structure: Embracing a Social Enterprise Model
Adopting a social enterprise model, the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation is the largest of its kind advancing education in Malaysia and has awarded more than RM892 million in scholarships and grants to deserving and qualified students to date.
The origins of the logo
The planting of the seeds marks the start of a journey – one that Sunway began back in 1986.
We place great importance on the careful tending and nurturing of growth. With the right nutrients and a conducive environment, these seeds will flourish and thrive.
The mortarboard symbolises the attainment of knowledge, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey toward wisdom.
The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation is laying the groundwork to carry this mission forward in perpetuity, as we look ahead to an enduring harvest of wisdom for generations to come.
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Guiding
Principles
Guided by an unwavering conviction, the Foundation – under the leadership of our founding trustee and a distinguished Board of Trustees – embarked on a mission grounded in three fundamental principles to influence every initiative and decision we undertake.
GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY
The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation believes that those who have been fortunate can make a meaningful impact by supporting others, as true success lies in uplifting others. We offer educational opportunities to deserving students, especially to those in need, while empowering communities and advancing sustainable development. Through partnerships with like-minded organisations, the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation’s grants, scholarships, and outreach programmes inspires meaningful change for students and communities in Malaysia and beyond.
QUALITY EDUCATION & RESEARCH
Education is our core mission. The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation fosters an inclusive environment that promotes curiosity and critical thinking, ensuring every individual has the opportunity to realise their full potential in the pursuit of excellence.
The Foundation believes in harnessing the power of innovation and research to advance progress and solve pressing challenges. We encourage groundbreaking research by providing funding and resources to empower researchers in their pursuit of knowledge and discovery.
VISION IN PERPETUITY
The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation envisions a future that is inclusive, equitable, and driven by shared progress and opportunity. Guided by the firm belief of our founding trustee, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah KBE AO, that education and research is the most powerful tool for social mobility and national progress, we are committed to empowering deserving individuals and uplifting communities to drive meaningful change.
Hope begins with a single act of kindness. Your support of the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation will give deserving students the gift of hope, opportunity and inspire a legacy of lasting impact.
Together, we can make a difference by transforming challenges into opportunities, and dreams into realities. Be part of this empowering journey as we work towards building a brighter future and a stronger, more inclusive Malaysia.
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