International philanthropic figures are set to meet in Kuala Lumpur to discuss how the global economic crisis has affected philanthropic activities and corporate social responsibility. The conference, entitled "Enhancing the Role of Philanthropy in Challenging Times", is also aimed at strengthening philanthropic initiatives to address the consequences of the crisis.

Peter De Courcy Hero, an international authority on community foundations, is set to give the keynote address. Speakers from Asia, Australia and Africa as well as Malaysian corporations, including Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), are planned to share their thoughts on facing the challenges before philanthropy, philanthropy and social entrepreneurship, community and religious philanthropy, nation building and philanthropy and CSR and strategic philanthropy.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is scheduled to launch the conference, which is convened by Kuala Lumpur-based organisation Philantrophy Asia. More information on the event is available on its website (www.philanthropyasia.net).

The conference seeks to: 

• Assess the impact of the global crisis on different types of philanthropy
• Take note of the consequences of the crisis on CSR
• Draw upon the strength of philanthropy to address crisis-generated consequences
• Creatively identify challenges and opportunities for philanthropy
• Initiate exchange of expertise and dialogue between those interested in philanthropic action
• Bring together the community of philanthropic organizations, corporations, governments, non-governmental organisations, and individuals

"The impact of philanthropy in reducing poverty, hunger, disease, unemployment and illiteracy is huge. Philanthropy sustains social harmony and protects the environment," said Philanthropy Asia managing director Josie Fernandez.