Starting as a small fundraiser nearly 40 years ago, Carlsberg Malaysia’s Top Ten Charity Campaign (Top Ten) has grown into a nationwide initiative supported by Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) committees, donors, media partners, and the public, all united in strengthening vernacular education. Since 1987, Top Ten has raised a total of RM600 million, including RM14.8 million raised this year alone, cementing its role as Malaysia’s longest-running and most impactful Chinese education charity platform.
“Vernacular schools are vital in shaping Malaysia’s multicultural education system, providing future leaders with quality education. Many schools rely on public donations to maintain and upgrade facilities—a cause Top Ten has championed for nearly four decades,” said Pearl Lai, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Director of Carlsberg Malaysia.
Top Ten has benefited over 700 schools across Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, improving learning environments with upgraded facilities, AI-enabled smart classrooms, and more. Beyond education, the campaign fosters community unity, bringing together parents, artistes, and partners for the shared mission of securing children’s futures.
Datuk Haw Chin Teck, Chairman of SJKC Chung Hwa Sungai Sendok in Johor, the top fundraising school this year, said, “The proceeds have allowed us to enhance facilities and create a better learning environment. Top Ten is more than fundraising; it brings communities together to support our children’s education.”
Permanent Honorary Chairman Mr. Tan Cheng Teng highlighted Lahad Datu Middle School’s three-year involvement with Top Ten, raising RM6 million to redevelop a single-storey building with labs, offices, a dance studio, and a cooking room, greatly improving teaching and activity spaces.
In recent years, Top Ten has extended support to higher education institutions such as UTAR Hospital. Yang Berbahagia Ir. Professor Dato’ Dr. Ewe Hong Tat, UTAR President, said, “Funds raised have improved teaching facilities, medical equipment, and patient care. We thank Carlsberg Malaysia for their continued support, which has enhanced learning and healthcare for future medical officers.”
Pearl Lai, Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability of Carlsberg Malaysia, delivering her address at the Top Ten Charity Concert 2025.
Championing Green Futures
Top Ten also promotes environmental responsibility through its Go Green initiative, engaging nine schools nationwide in sustainability projects. Students have produced over 228 litres of eco-enzymes and nearly 538 kg of eco-bricks, gaining practical environmental knowledge and fostering climate-conscious habits.
“Education and sustainability go hand-in-hand. Through Top Ten, we are nurturing the next generation to build a greener, better, and brighter Malaysia,” said Lai.
This milestone underscores Carlsberg Malaysia’s long-standing commitment to education, community support, and sustainability. Through its Together Towards ZERO and Beyond programme, the brewer continues to advance initiatives aligned with UN SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), creating lasting impact for communities and the environment.
