WHAT began more than a decade ago as a modest charitable initiative has grown into one of Bermaz Motor's most significant annual traditions: its annual golf tournament raises support for medical relief and vulnerable communities.
A golf course became a gathering point for philanthropy as Bermaz Motor brought corporate partners, government representatives and Mazda customers together for its 12th annual Mazda Charity Golf Tournament.
This reinforces the company's long-running effort to channel private-sector support to Malaysians in need.
Held on Oct 9-10 at Glenmarie Golf & Country Club, the event drew about 200 participants and raised support for the Mazda Medicare Fund (MMF), which provides medical assistance and humanitarian aid to underprivileged communities.
The charity luncheon on Oct 10 was graced by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who has served as the fund's royal patron since 2015.
Also present were Health director-general Datuk Dr Mahathar Abdul Wahab, Pahang executive council member Datuk Mohamad Nizar Mohamad Najib and Malaysian Investment Development Authority chief executive officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid.
Bermaz Auto Bhd executive chairman Tan Sri Ben Yeoh said the tournament had grown beyond a sporting event into a collective effort to support communities requiring assistance.
"Corporate responsibility must be lived, not stated," he said, adding that the event brought together industry players, public agencies, partners and customers around a shared purpose.
This year's beneficiaries include Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Yatim dan Cacat Perlindungan Selangor, Pusat Jagaan Anak-Anak Yatim Sai Pandian, Pertubuhan Rumah Anak Yatim dan Asnaf Kampung Sijangkang and Yayasan Al-Sultan Abdullah.
The organisations provide services spanning cancer care, welfare assistance and protection for orphans and vulnerable groups. Their representatives received symbolic mock cheques at the luncheon.
Established in 2015 through a collaboration between Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd and B. Braun Avitum Renal Services, the MMF initially focused on subsidised haemodialysis for financially disadvantaged patients with end-stage renal disease.
Its support has since extended to elderly care homes, orphanages, disability centres and facilities for children with special needs.
The fund said beneficiaries are assessed to ensure contributions are directed towards meaningful assistance, with donations allocated to charitable purposes rather than unnecessary overheads.
Bermaz Motor has also sought to sustain funding beyond the annual tournament through its Mazda Privilege Card, introduced in 2018.
The card carries a one-time RM100 registration fee that goes directly to the MMF and is eligible for tax exemption, subject to the applicable requirements.
Members also receive a 15 per cent discount on selected genuine Mazda spare parts and a 5 per cent discount on labour charges at Bermaz Motor and Prima Merdu Mazda service centres nationwide.
The programme gives Mazda owners another avenue to contribute to community support while accessing selected ownership benefits.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd