Dear Friends,

Thank you for your kind support for Temasek Trust over the years. This edition of the Temasek Trust Newsletter is a special one as it marks a new chapter of our journey in philanthropy.

As you may know, Temasek Trust was established by Temasek in 2007, as part of Temasek’s decision to formalize its role as a corporate citizen, working to ensure the continued progress and success of Asia and our communities in Asia. Temasek’s intent for Temasek Trust was for it to be the principal recipient of philanthropic endowments gifted by Temasek for our communities. Temasek Trust was to oversee the financial management of the endowments and disburse in accordance within the principles set out by Temasek.

Over the years, Temasek Trust has evolved and grown in its role. Initially entrusted to oversee an endowment gift of S$500m, today Temasek Trust is responsible for almost 20 endowments with total value exceeding S$3b. Beyond its primary role as a steward of philanthropic gifts, Temasek has expanded its mission to serve as a convener of philanthropic ideas and best practises, an advocate of giving, and a catalyst for new paradigms in philanthropy.

I believe that businesses must give back to the societies in which they operate beyond their primary stakeholders. I am happy that in my former role as Chairman of Temasek, I had the privilege of being a part of the ‘birth’ of Temasek Trust. In my present role as Chairman of Temasek Trust, I am honoured to have the opportunity to continue to work with management to shape and strengthen Temasek Trust to serve the changing needs of our communities.

This year is an exciting one for Temasek Trust with the launch of two new initiatives: Temasek Shophouse – a cradle for social impact where active citizenship, corporate social responsibility and impactful philanthropy are championed, and a place where business and community, corporates and not-for-profit enterprises can come together--and ABC World Asia – a fund engaged in impact investing as a critical lever for sustainability by advancing social and environmental solutions for the long term through investments that also produce good returns.

As we embark on a new chapter of Temasek Trust’s journey in philanthropy I would like to convey our gratitude to Temasek and our partners for their invaluable support. Temasek Trust will continue to push boundaries in sustainable philanthropy and strive towards securing a future of hope and opportunity for the peoples of Asia and beyond. We look forward to welcoming you at Temasek Shophouse, and in working together for a better tomorrow.

Yours sincerely,
S Dhanabalan
Chairman, Temasek Trust