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TIYA Conference 2025: Over 150 Youth Leaders from 15 Countries Gathered to Advance United Nations’ SDGs

Published

3 months ago

11/09/2025

Three-day conference in Singapore empowers young changemakers through mentorship and international collaboration

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 September 2025 – Tzu-Chi Foundation (Singapore) and the Tzu Chi International Youth Association (TIYA) are proud to announce the successful conclusion of TIYA Conference 2025, which convened youth leaders, industry experts, and practitioners from sustainability-focused organisations from all over the world to advance concrete action on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 130-plus youth delegates developed 15 action plans, proposing solutions ranging from smart microgrids for rural towns to community-owned wind farms.

Placing youths at the forefront of sustainability leadership

Held from 22 to 24 August at the Tzu Chi Humanistic Youth Centre in Singapore, the conference featured a learning journey, plenaries, interactive workshops as well as an Action Plan Development segment designed to equip youth leaders with the tools, networks, and practical insights needed to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future.

Aligned with SDG 17, the Action Plan Development segment on Day Three was a highlight, with youth delegates generating innovative solutions to pressing issues.

One team tackled Jakarta’s recurring fires, proposing resilient housing, reliable utilities, and improved fire prevention to protect displaced communities. Another focused on Malaysia’s frequent floods, designing strategies aligned with SDG 11 to safeguard vulnerable populations, support low-income families, and promote resilient urban planning. A third team, comprising delegates from Malaysia, the Philippines, Nepal, and Sudan, addressed health and dignity challenges faced by stateless communities in Sabah, advocating for better access to clean water, sanitation, and sustainable living solutions.

Shaan Gom, Indigenous Youth Engagement & Empowerment Coordinator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Bangkok Regional Hub, was a facilitator in the TIYA Conference’s organising committee. He was especially heartened to see delegates, who hail from different countries, come together to tackle problems that exist not just in their home countries but also around the world. “The cross-border dialogue amongst the youths and mentors from different countries is what made TIYA Conference so unique. It fosters awareness and a sense of camaraderie that might not emerge otherwise.”

The journey does not end at the conclusion of the event. The TIYA team will continue hosting capacity-building sessions and online expert consultations over the next four to 12 weeks, and there is a potential to bring viable action plans to the global stage. The delegates were also encouraged to enter their action plans in the 2026 edition of Generation Hope Goals: Actions for the SDGs.

Knowledge-sharing and collaboration opportunities abound

Prior to the Action Plan Development segment, youth delegates spent two and a half days soaking up knowledge from industry experts. Participating organisations included Tonibung, AVPN, United Nations Development Programme Bangkok Regional Hub, World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, and more. Tania Lim from the Energy Division of UNESCAP and Dayyan Shayani from the UN Statistics Division supported the pre-information session, which helped participants prepare for the conference.

Four sessions formed the backbone of the conference, each centring on an SDG and addressing challenges that resonate across Asia-Pacific:

Learning Journey to Singapore Sustainability Gallery or Coastal Tour with Orang Laut SG (SDG 6)

Embarking on an immersive learning experience, delegates explored sustainable water management practices at the Singapore Sustainability Gallery or gained first-hand insights into coastal ecosystems and traditional culture with Orang Laut SG.

Power Shifts: Youth Reimagining Energy Systems (SDG 7)

Delegates explored the complexities of energy transitions, from the rising demand for clean power to the importance of community-driven solutions. Conversations highlighted the integration of indigenous knowledge, the risks of extractive supply chains, and the need for energy justice in ensuring equitable transitions.

Catalysing Change: Outcomes-Based Social Investing (SDG 9)

This session delved into how outcomes-based financing models can unlock innovation and accountability in addressing social challenges. By focusing on measurable results, it underscored the potential for youth-led initiatives to attract funding and scale impact while ensuring transparency and inclusivity.

Cities Reborn: Youth Designing for People & Planet (SDG 11)

Through case studies from Malaysia, the Philippines, and on Tzu Chi’s relief mission for Typhoon Haiyan, this session emphasised human-centered urban planning. Delegates discussed how cities can integrate resilience, cultural sensitivity, and youth participation to respond to climate and social challenges while shaping livable, inclusive spaces.

For delegate Bella Citra Hadini, the experience at the conference has been transformative. She is the founder of Youthoffer, an organisation focused on self-development for young people in Indonesia. Passionate about giving back, she has spearheaded initiatives such as Project Smiles, which taught children in the Philippines the importance of oral hygiene. “After the TIYA Conference, I learnt more about pitching to venture capitalists. I also realised the importance of research, which I hadn’t focused on before, and how crucial it is to ensure our solution truly benefits the target community.”

Looking Ahead

As climate, social, and economic pressures intensify across the Asia-Pacific, TIYA Conference 2025 has reinforced the critical role of youth in shaping inclusive and sustainable futures. With commitments made during the conference now moving into implementation, TIYA and its partners will continue to provide mentorship, resources, and funding opportunities to ensure that ideas are translated into tangible, lasting change.

“The future of sustainable development is being written now, by young people who refuse to accept the status quo,” added Lim Choon Choon, Deputy General Manager of Tzu-Chi Foundation (Singapore). “TIYA Conference is proud to be a platform that not only amplifies their voices but also equips them with the means to act.”

TIYA 2025 by the Numbers

3 days of high-level discussions, interactive workshops, and collaborative labs
Over 150 youth delegates from 15 countries
15 action plans developed
6 mentors and facilitators representing government, academia, civil society, and the private sector
5 SDGs spotlighted (6: Clean Water & Sanitation; 7: Affordable & Clean Energy; 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure; 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities; 17: Partnerships for the Goals)

To browse and download photos of the event, please visit TIYA Conference (2025) – Tzu-Chi Foundation (Singapore).
Hashtag: #YouthLeadership #Sustainability #SDGs #CleanEnergy #TIYA2025 #TzuChiFoundation #ClimateAction #SocialImpact #Education #Innovation #InclusiveFuture #YouthEmpowerment #EnergyTransition #RenewableEnergy

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Tzu-Chi Foundation (Singapore)

Founded in 1966 by Master Cheng Yen, the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation is a global humanitarian nonprofit organisation providing aid across over 100 countries, with missions in charity, medicine, education, and humanistic culture.

Established in 1993, Tzu-Chi Foundation (Singapore) began with charity work and later expanded to medical, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives.

“Tzu Chi” embodies the spirit of compassion and relief for all.

Address: 9 Elias Road, Singapore 519937

For more information:

Website: www.tzuchi.org.sg/en
Chinese site: www.tzuchi.org.sg
Facebook: facebook.com/tzuchifoundationsg
Instagram: instagram.com/tzuchisg
YouTube: @tzuchifoundationsg
Telegram (EN): t.me/tzuchisg_en
Telegram (ZH): t.me/tzuchisg

Media OutReach

Payment Options Singapore Secures In-Principle Approval from MAS for Major Payment Institution Licence

Published

12 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – Payment Options Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based payment solutions provider, is pleased to announce that it has received In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a Major Payment Institution (MPI) licence under the Payment Services Act 2019.

Payment Options Pte Ltd office in Singapore

This milestone underscores Payment Options’ commitment to supporting Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simple, secure, and accessible digital payment solutions.

If granted the licence, Payment Options Pte Ltd will be authorised to provide three regulated payment services: Merchant Acquisition, Domestic Money Transfer, and Cross-Border Money Transfer. Through these services, the company aims to empower SMEs with a full suite of payment capabilities — from online payment gateways and QR code payments to the upcoming SoftPOS payments technology — enabling merchants to accept digital payments easily and securely.

“We remain deeply committed to supporting Singapore’s SMEs as they grow and compete in an increasingly digital-first economy. Our vision is to position digital payments as a growth enabler — not a challenge — for small businesses”, said Aaron Yip, Director of Payment Options Pte Ltd. “Our goal is to make digital transactions seamless, secure, and accessible for every business, regardless of size.”

Building on this vision, if the licence is granted, Payment Options will continue to work closely with local merchants, financial institutions, and technology partners to enhance payment accessibility and drive innovation across Singapore’s SME ecosystem.

“We reaffirm our commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation, as we contribute to Singapore’s ongoing journey toward a secure, inclusive, and cash-lite economy.”

The IPA granted by the MAS indicates that a licence may be issued upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. The IPA does not constitute a licence to provide payment services at this stage, and MAS reserves the right to rescind the approval if it deems appropriate.
Hashtag: #PaymentOptions

https://www.paymentoptions.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/payment-options/
https://www.facebook.com/PaymentOptions.int/
https://www.instagram.com/payment.options/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Payment Options Pte Ltd

Payment Options Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based financial technology company providing innovative and secure payment solutions designed to help SMEs and merchants simplify digital transactions. With a focus on compliance, technology, and customer experience, the company aims to make digital payments accessible for every business.

Media OutReach

Financial Assistance at SIM: Breaking Barriers to Education

Published

13 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – For many aspiring learners, financial constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles to achieving their goals. SIM is determined to change that. Guided by the principle that no student should be left behind because of cost, SIM has built a comprehensive ecosystem of financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to make quality education attainable for all.

At the heart of this mission is the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to empowering students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that financial hardship never stands in the way of academic or personal growth. By blending need-based assistance with merit-driven opportunities, SIM is creating an inclusive learning environment where talent and ambition define success.

Empowering Learners Through the SIM Impact Fund

In 2024, SIM introduced the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to supporting students from lower-income households and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational aspirations. Administered through SIM Trust, the fund is designed to empower learners within and beyond SIM’s community by removing barriers to access. Beginning in 2025, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with a per-capita income of S$1,750 or below can benefit from tiered assistance, ranging from S$6,000 up to S$13,500 for those with PCI of S$600 or less, S$4,500 to S$6,750 for PCI between S$601 and S$1,000, and S$2,000 for PCI between S$1,001 and S$1,750. Beyond tuition aid, the fund also provides support for overseas internships and merit-based scholarships, benefiting approximately 500 students annually.

Beyond Tuition: Comprehensive Financial Aid

SIM’s commitment to learning accessibility goes far beyond tuition subsidies. Through its Financial Assistance schemes, students can tap into a range of support options tailored to different needs. These include Enhanced Bursaries Aid, which provide up to S$13,500 per year for Singapore Citizens, and a SIM GE Crisis Fund offering emergency relief of up to S$5,000 for unforeseen circumstances. In addition, SIM encourages global exposure through Study Abroad Awards, enabling students to broaden their horizons without financial strain. Together, these initiatives reflect SIM’s ethos of inclusivity and resilience, ensuring that financial challenges never derail academic aspirations.

Community-Focused Support

The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) exemplifies SIM’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment and social impact. Launched in July 2024 in partnership with the late Dr Eu’s family,

RESSEC received a combined S$8 million donation, S$6 million from the Eu family and S$2 million from SIM, marking a significant investment in nurturing social entrepreneurship. Guided by Dr Eu’s vision of transforming social service through ethical leadership and innovation, the Centre equips learners and social service professionals via initiatives such as a specialised postgraduate Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship, mentorship, and collaborative dialogues.

RESSEC also provides 12 bursaries of S$10,000 each for SIM Global Education students (check that this is accurate and that it’s not also extended to those outside the SIM ecosystem) who demonstrate strong community service and leadership and those with per-capita income up to S$1,750, prioritising those with per-capita income less than S$1,000. Through this initiative, SIM embeds purpose-driven learning into its mission, empowering students to create sustainable, positive impact in Singapore and beyond

Scholarship for Excellence

SIM offers a diverse range of scholarships under SIM Global Education to recognize excellence and resilience among its students. These include the SIM STARRR Award, which provides up to S$36,000 to outstanding achievers who demonstrate academic distinction and leadership qualities, and the Sports & Arts Talent Award, also valued at S$15,000 for students who excel in athletic or artistic pursuits. Additionally, the Chairman’s Award for Resilience grants S$3,000 to students who successfully balance work and study commitments, showcasing perseverance in the face of challenges. Together, these scholarships complement SIM’s need-based financial aid, creating a holistic support system that rewards merit while ensuring inclusivity.

Conclusion: Building a Future Without Barriers

SIM’s financial assistance framework is more than a set of policies, it is a promise to the community. By investing in initiatives like the SIM Impact Fund and expanding bursaries and scholarships, SIM is actively dismantling the barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their potential. This approach does not just benefit students, it strengthens society by cultivating a diverse pool of graduates equipped to lead, innovate, and give back. In a world where education often comes with a hefty price tag, SIM stands out as a beacon of accessibility and empowerment. For students and families seeking assurance that quality education is within reach, SIM offers not just hope but a clear, actionable path forward.

References:

Bursaries & Financial Aid (Enhanced) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/bursaries-and-financial-aids
Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/ressec
The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) Opens to Advance Singapore’s Social Sector – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/the-dr-richard-k-m-eu-sim-social-entrepreneurship-centre-%28ressec%29-opens
SIM Scholarship – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships
SIM’s STARRR Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-starrr-award-for-new-undergraduate-students
SIM Award and Sports & Artistic Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-scholarship
SIM Global Education Diploma Scholarships – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-diploma-scholarships
Chairman’s Award for Resilience – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/chairman-s-award-for-resilience

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

Beyond Academic Excellence: SIM Scholarships Champion Leadership, Resilience, and Talent

Published

1 day ago

07/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is proud to reaffirm its commitment to developing future-ready graduates through a comprehensive scholarship framework that goes beyond academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to recognize and nurture qualities such as leadership, resilience, and talent. These attributes are essential for success in today’s dynamic global environment.

For decades, scholarships have been synonymous with academic excellence. SIM is redefining this narrative by adopting a holistic approach that values character, contribution, and courage alongside academic performance. This initiative reflects SIM’s mission to prepare graduates who are adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.

Scholarships That Go Beyond Academics

SIM’s scholarship ecosystem reflects its belief that success is multidimensional. Rather than focusing solely on grades, these awards celebrate qualities such as resilience, leadership, and talent. The SIM STARRR Award, for instance, supports freshmen who embody Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Responsibility, offering up to S$36,000 in tuition fees, along with living and exchange allowances, without any bond requirement.

For students who shine in sports or the arts, the SIM Award & Sports/Artistic Talent Award provides S$15,000, disbursed in two tranches, to help them balance academic and extracurricular excellence.

International students pursuing diploma programmes can benefit from the Diploma Scholarships, which cover up to 100% of course fees for academic excellence or 50% for merit-based achievements.

For working adults who have overcome significant challenges, the SIM Chairman’s Award for Resilience offers S$3,000, recognizing perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Stories That Inspire

SIM’s scholarships are more than financial aid. They are catalysts for transformation, opening doors for students to turn challenges into triumphs. Take Ernita Tanudjaja, an international student who refused to let pandemic disruptions derail her ambitions. Instead, she leveraged technology to livestream events and boost engagement, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness.

Similarly, Chow Kah Ying, an ICU nurse, managed the intense demands of frontline healthcare during COVID-19 while completing her degree, showcasing perseverance and purpose. Likewise, Michelle Seah transformed O-level failure into triumph, excelling in javelin and academics to earn the SIM Sports & Artistic Talent Award, proof that determination and discipline can rewrite any story.

These journeys reflect SIM’s unwavering belief that leadership and resilience matter as much as grades, and that true achievement lies in character and contribution as much as in academic performance.

The Broader Vision

SIM’s scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They serve as a strategic platform for transformation and growth. Recipients benefit from networking opportunities that connect them with alumni and industry leaders, fostering mentorship and career development. Many scholarships also provide international exposure through exchange programmes that broaden perspectives and enhance global competencies.

In addition to academic achievement, students cultivate essential life skills such as leadership, resilience and adaptability through experiential learning and community engagement. These qualities equip graduates to excel in uncertain environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

This commitment reflects SIM’s core belief that education is not limited to examinations. It is about shaping leaders who create impact and drive positive change in a rapidly evolving world.

References: