SDG #1: No Poverty
End poverty in all its forms everywhere
0
Active Initiatives
37
Publications
2020–2025
0
Future Goals
Our Impact
110,381+ students
Beneficiaries
RM 1.645 Billion scholarships Funded
Funding
3000+ rural communities supported
Communities
UTAR Initiatives
Merit-based scholarship programmes covering 100% tuition fees for underprivileged students.
Financial literacy workshops conducted monthly for students and local communities.
Community development projects in rural areas in Malaysia.
0% interest student emergency fund providing immediate financial assistance.
Career counseling and job placement services with 95% success rate.
E-commerce programmes for small business development using alibaba platform.
Poverty Eradication @ UTAR
Comprehensive poverty alleviation strategies through education, community development, and sustainable livelihood programmes that address the root causes of poverty and create lasting change.
109,585+
Families Supported
RM 1.623 Billion
Funding Distributed
Our Commitment to Ending Poverty
At Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), we recognize that poverty is a multidimensional challenge requiring comprehensive solutions. Our approach to SDG 1 encompasses education access, skills development, community empowerment, and sustainable livelihood creation that addresses both immediate needs and long-term poverty eradication.
Through our integrated poverty alleviation strategy, UTAR has supported over 109,585 families through various programmes including scholarships, microfinance, skills training, and community development initiatives. Our programmes focus on breaking the cycle of poverty through education and economic empowerment. We championing inclusive education for the bottom income quintile!
Our commitment extends beyond direct assistance to include research on poverty dynamics, policy advocacy, and partnerships with government agencies and NGOs. By addressing systemic issues and building community capacity, UTAR contributes to sustainable poverty reduction and social justice.
Our Poverty Eradication Principles
Education Access
Providing scholarships, educational resources, and learning opportunities to break the cycle of poverty through knowledge and skills development.
Community Empowerment
Building local capacity and leadership through community development programmes that address specific needs and strengthen social cohesion.
Economic Opportunity
Creating sustainable livelihood opportunities through microfinance, entrepreneurship support, and skills training programmes.
Poverty Eradication Achievements in 2024
10,544
Students Supported
RM 19.4M+
Scholarships Awarded
RM 2.7M
Student Loan Distributed
5,000
Skills Training Participants
Our Strategic Poverty Approach
Prevention
Preventing poverty through early intervention, education access, and social protection systems that address risk factors.
Support
Providing immediate assistance and long-term support to families experiencing poverty through comprehensive programmes.
Empowerment
Building capacity and creating opportunities for sustainable livelihood development and economic independence.
Poverty Eradication Initiative Highlights
Comprehensive Scholarship & Loan Programme
Merit-based and need-based scholarship programme providing full financial support to 10,5
10,544
Students Benefited
100%
Graduate Rate
- Full tuition fees coverage for eligible students
- Monthly living allowances and accommodation support
- Academic mentoring and career guidance programmes
- Post-graduation employment assistance and networking
Championing Inclusivity for the Bottom Income Quintile
Aiming to widen educational access for students from the lowest income groups, the programme empowers them through equitable learning opportunities that foster inclusion, enhance social mobility, and promote long-term educational equity and academic excellence.
30+
Scholarship & Loan Support
100%
Accessible & Interest Free
- Free accommodation for needy students
- Monthly living allowances and accommodation support
- Academic mentoring and career guidance programmes
- Food bank programme – Hope packs to help low-income students
Empowering Students from Emerging Economies
Providing support for students from low and lower-middle income countries enhances access to higher education, empowers learners through scholarships and resources, and fosters global inclusion, equity, and opportunities for academic and personal growth.
6
Scholarship Support
100%
Accessible & Interest Free
- Collaborate with external organization to expand opportunities
- Research scholar support for postgraduate students
- Academic mentoring and career guidance programmes
- Food bank programme to help the students
Affordable Housing for Students
The university provides affordable student housing, offering safe, comfortable, well-equipped living spaces. These residences foster a vibrant, inclusive campus community, ensure convenient facility access and allow students to focus on studies without financial stress.
5000+
Accommodation
100%
Fully Furnished
- Free accommodation for needy students
- Convenient access to campus and shuttle services
- Rental range from RM 500 to RM 900 per month, including utilities
- Flexible options for short-term, long-term and emergency stays
Campus Food Bank Programme
Comprehensive campus food assistance programme providing emergency food relief and regular meal support to financially struggling students, ensuring no student goes hungry while pursuing their education and maintaining academic performance.
1000
Students Supported
20,000
Meals Provided
- Daily meal for financially struggling students
- Emergency food packages during pandemic periods
- Nutritious campus cafeteria meal subsidies
- Student peer support and volunteer programmes
New Village E-Commerce Programme for Local Startup
UTAR empowers New Village communities through e-commerce initiatives connecting rural entrepreneurs with SMEs, providing training, mentorship, and digital resources to promote sustainable businesses, reduce poverty, and foster inclusive economic growth.
RM 50,000
Financial Assistance
20
Business Supported
- UTAR Young Entrepreneur Startup Scheme (UTARYESS)
- Entrepreneurship training and business planning support with Alibaba platform
- Mentorship programmes and ongoing business guidance
- Market linkage and value chain development
Rural Community Development
Comprehensive community development programme supporting 10,000+ families in rural areas through infrastructure development, capacity building, and sustainable livelihood creation that addresses local needs and strengthens community resilience.
10,000+
Families Supported
50
Communities Reached
- Infrastructure development and basic services access
- Community leadership training and capacity building
- Sustainable agriculture and livelihood programmes
- Healthcare access and nutrition improvement initiatives
Vocational Skills Training
Comprehensive skills development programme reaching 8,000+ individuals annually through vocational training, digital literacy, and professional development courses that enhance employability and income-generating capacity.
5,000+
Annual Participants
100%
Employment Rate
- Technical and vocational skills certification programmes
- Digital literacy and computer skills training
- Job placement assistance and career counseling
- Continuing education and skills upgrade programmes
Healthcare Access Initiative
Comprehensive healthcare programme providing medical services, health education, and preventive care to vulnerable communities, addressing health-related poverty through accessible and affordable healthcare solutions.
10,000+
Patients Served
50
Community Services
- Mobile health clinics for remote communities
- Preventive care and health screening programmes
- Health education and awareness campaigns
- Maternal and child health support services
Food Security and Nutrition
Comprehensive food security programme addressing malnutrition and hunger in underserved areas through food distribution, nutrition education, and sustainable agriculture initiatives ensuring access to nutritious meals.
50,000+
Meals Distributed
3,000
Children Supported
- Daily meal programmes for vulnerable children
- Emergency food assistance for families in crisis
- Nutrition education and cooking skills training
- Community gardens and sustainable agriculture
Digital Inclusion Initiative
Comprehensive digital literacy programme bridging the technology gap for low-income families through computer training, internet access, and digital skills development that opens new opportunities for education and employment.
3,000+
Participants Trained
30
Learning Activities
- Basic computer and internet skills training
- Digital literacy programmes for all age groups
- Online learning platform access and support
- Digital entrepreneurship and e-commerce training
Addressing Poverty Research
Active participation in policy-making at local, regional, national and global levels to implement comprehensive programmes and policies designed to end poverty in all its dimensions through evidence-based research and strategic advocacy.
1
Activities Initiatives
5
Partnerships
- Developing local poverty reduction strategy initiatives
- Advancing national social protection policy research
- Collaborating on regional poverty measurement frameworks
- Supporting global SDG monitoring and implementation
Sustainability Activities Highlights
Activities and achievements from UTAR's commitment to poverty eradication
UTAR and BBSB Holdings Sdn Bhd ink MoA to launch transformative scholarship initiative
11 August 2025
UTAR and BBSB Holdings Sdn Bhd established the BBSB-UTAR Scholarship, providing full tuition, a living allowance, and a laptop to support a Bachelor of Science (Honours) Quantity Surveying student. Targeting academically talented students with financial need, it removes barriers to higher education and promotes personal and professional development. The scholarship reflects both institutions’ commitment to empowering youth, fostering inclusive opportunities, and equipping future professionals to contribute meaningfully to society while addressing economic challenges in Malaysia.
UTAR Sungai Long Campus hosts scholarship award ceremony for June 2025 Intake
22 July 2025
The UTAR Scholarships Award Presentation Ceremony for the June 2025 intake highlighted the university’s commitment to making education accessible to all. With over RM239.55 million awarded in scholarships and interest-free loans benefiting more than 23,000 students, the event celebrated academic excellence and the transformative power of financial support. Recipients shared personal stories of perseverance and opportunity, illustrating how scholarships enable students from diverse backgrounds to pursue higher education, develop skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities and society.
UTAR media scholarships: empowering futures through education
19 March 2025
Three exceptional UTAR students were recently awarded the prestigious UTAR Media Scholarships, including the UTAR-The Star Education Fund and UTAR-Sin Chew Daily Education Fund, in partnership with leading media organisations. Recipients Lee En Xin, Hong Thien Gen, and Tan Jia Sheng received full tuition coverage, easing financial challenges and allowing them to focus on their studies. The scholarships reflect UTAR’s commitment to accessible, quality education, recognising academic excellence while empowering students to develop their potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities and society.
Honouring academic excellence with UTAR scholarship presentation ceremony for February 2025 Intake
24 February 2025
The UTAR Scholarship Award Presentation Ceremony for the February 2025 intake highlighted the university’s commitment to accessible, quality education. With over RM216.5 million in internal scholarships and RM19.1 million in interest-free loans awarded, students facing financial challenges gained support to focus on studies and personal growth. Recipients shared inspiring stories of perseverance, showing how scholarships empower them to pursue education, develop skills, and engage in university life. The ceremony emphasized education’s transformative power in creating opportunities.
Book Launch ceremony for Inheriting the Family Legacy: The Story of Goh Kim Whuat & Pantai Selamat Group
15 November 2024
The book Inheriting the Family Legacy: The Story of Goh Kim Whuat & Pantai Selamat Group was launched at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, jointly organised by I Culture Bhd, UTAR Institute of Chinese Studies, and the Centre for Chinese Studies. Authored by Dr Wong, the biography chronicles Goh Kim Whuat’s entrepreneurial journey, strong family values, and significant contributions to the community. The event featured speeches, a Chinese Orchestra performance, and a RM100,000 donation to UTAR Hospital, showcasing perseverance, compassion, cultural preservation, and a commitment to social responsibility.
FAM hosts financial planning workshop for TDET homeschooling centre
13 December 2024
The Faculty of Accountancy and Management hosted a Financial Planning Workshop for 18 students and three teachers from TDET Homeschooling Centre. Led by Mr Low Choon Wei alongside student facilitators, the interactive session guided participants in managing income, savings, expenses, and financial risks through realistic, simulated scenarios. Attendees enhanced their critical thinking, budgeting, and adaptability skills, gaining practical experience in financial planning while developing a deeper understanding of the importance of saving, insurance, and effectively preparing for unexpected financial challenges.
FBF postgraduate colloquium 2024 focuses on fostering a scholarly community
4 December 2024
UTAR sponsored the FBF Postgraduate Colloquium 2024 at Kampar Campus, themed “Building a Scholarly Community”. The event opened with a keynote by Prof. Dr Wong Chin Yoong, who emphasised that knowledge creation and consumption are mutually reinforcing and crucial for teaching, research, and service. Sessions explored digital transformation, globalisation, sustainable economic growth, and ESG-risk mitigation, with research on food security, circular supply chains, gender diversity, and financial inclusion of marginalised groups.
UTAR hosts engaging workshop on Microsoft Power Apps
23 November 2024
The Centre for Foundation Studies (CFS) at UTAR Kampar, in collaboration with FICT, hosted the online workshop “App in a Day with Microsoft Low-Code Programming,” attracting 227 participants. Facilitated by Microsoft Power Apps experts Mr Hong Peck Keong and Mr Wesley Goh Yi Yong, the session introduced low-code app development, data integration, and workflow automation. Participants gained hands-on experience with app design and Excel-like formulas, enhancing digital and practical skills. The workshop fostered innovation, productivity, and readiness for real-world technology applications.
UTAR scholarship award presentation ceremony for October 2024 intake
13 November 2024
UTAR held its Scholarship Award Presentation Ceremony for the October 2024 intake, honouring 400 students across its Kampar and Sungai Long campuses. Together, the institution has disbursed over RM 206.9 million in internal scholarships and RM 25.9 million in external scholarships to more than 23,000 students since October. Recipients shared heartfelt stories of academic struggle and triumph, expressing gratitude for opportunities that ease financial burdens and enable full focus on their studies.
FAM hosts engaging financial leadership talk with Ambank
4 November 2024
UTAR hosted a talk titled “Understanding Smart Financial Planning and How Financial Leadership Drives Success,” featuring AmBank Islamic Berhad’s Encik Mohd Ridzuan Saleh. Attended by about 150 participants, including students and banking professionals, the session explored financial planning, budgeting, and leadership in managing finances. The event promoted financial responsibility, empowerment, and economic resilience, encouraging participants to adopt sustainable money management practices that help reduce poverty through enhanced financial literacy.
Empowering SMJK Pei Yuan students with financial awareness through game-based learning
18 October 2024
UTAR organised the “Money Masters: Cash Flow Adventure” programme for 247 Form 5 students at SMJK Pei Yuan. Through an interactive game-based approach, students learned about cash flow, risk and return, and asset allocation across income groups (T20, M40, B40). The initiative aimed to strengthen financial literacy and equip youth with essential financial skills to promote economic stability, encourage responsible money management, and reduce poverty through informed financial decision-making.
UTAR and Hexatech Engineering Sdn Bhd partner to support students through UTAR Care scholarships
11 October 2024
UTAR signed a partnership agreement with Hexatech Engineering Sdn Bhd to support the “UTAR Care Scholarships”, providing financial aid to deserving students at the Sungai Long Campus. The collaboration reflects Hexatech’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and UTAR’s mission to ensure education accessibility for all. Through this initiative, financially challenged students can pursue their tertiary studies without burden, promoting equal educational opportunities and contributing to poverty reduction through education and empowerment.
UTAR Scholarship award presentation ceremony for June 2024 intake
18 July 2024
UTAR held its Scholarship Award Presentation Ceremony for the June 2024 intake at both Sungai Long and Kampar campuses, honouring 328 internal and external scholarship recipients. UTAR President Prof. Dato’ Dr. Ewe Hong Tat noted that over RM202.3 million in internal scholarships and RM17.1 million in loans had been awarded as of June. The scholarships eased financial burdens, encouraged perseverance, and recognised students’ achievements and potential.
H.E. Ambassador Ouyang Yujing awards scholarships to UTAR students
12 July 2024
UTAR welcomed Ouyang Yujing, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia, at the China Ambassador Scholarship Award Presentation Ceremony held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. Forty Foundation and undergraduate UTAR students from diverse backgrounds received scholarships from the Chinese Embassy, continuing a programme that has benefitted over 290 students since 2016 and disbursed about RM1 million.
Much-needed scholarships by Jinbodhi for needy students
6 June 2024
UTAR held the JinBodhi Bursary Deed of Donation Signing and Award Presentation Ceremony at Sungai Long Campus, organised by the Department of Scholarships and Financial Aid (DSFA). Supported by the Bodhi Meditation Charity Foundation (BMCF), the event awarded scholarships to four deserving students. UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat and BMCF Chairman Teacher Ling Shan signed the deed, reaffirming their shared belief in education’s transformative power. The bursary empowers students to overcome financial challenges and pursue brighter futures.
UTAR graduate Liew Li Wen awarded MEXT 2024 scholarship for master's degree in Japan
22 March 2024
UTAR graduate Liew Li Wen received the MEXT 2024 Scholarship to pursue a master’s degree in Environmental Sciences at the University of Tsukuba, Japan. The award was presented by the Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia, His Excellency Takahashi Katsuhiko, during the MEXT Scholarships 2024 Pre-Departure Orientation Dinner. Liew was selected to deliver a speech and serve as the JAGAM student ambassador. Her scholarship fully covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, supporting her academic growth and future environmental contributions.
UTAR Scholarship award presentation ceremony for January 2024 intake
21 March 2024
UTAR held its Scholarship Award Presentation Ceremony for the January 2024 intake on 21 March at its Sungai Long Campus and 27 March at its Kampar Campus. A total of 101 internal and external scholarship recipients attended. UTAR President Ewe Hong Tat emphasised that the scholarships symbolise both recognition of academic achievement and a responsibility to use education positively. Recipients voiced their gratitude, citing financial relief and increased commitment to contribute to society.
PR students organise food distribution initiatives to aid the less fortunate
27 February 2024
Sixteen final-year UTAR Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences students organised the Love Canteen campaign in Ipoh and Kampar to raise awareness about food insufficiency among underprivileged communities. In collaboration with Pertubuhan Amal Ai Xin Fan Tong, they distributed over 1,000 food packs and provided meals to 100 elderly individuals. The campaign revealed the struggles of the poor and elderly, highlighting the importance of food access, empathy, and community support in addressing hunger and promoting social well-being.
Act of kindness brings sound to student's ears
20 February 2024
UTAR expressed heartfelt gratitude to Madam Tan for her generous contribution to the UTAR Relief Financial Aid, sponsoring a RM3,500 hearing aid for Tan Swee Yang, a Software Engineering student with hearing loss caused by Crohn’s disease. Her support has eased Tan’s financial burden and improved his learning experience. This act of kindness reflects UTAR’s mission of compassion and inclusivity, inspiring others to support students in need and foster a caring, equitable academic community.
Two UTAR students awarded Yayasan Mr. D.I.Y. Scholarship
11 January 2024
Two UTAR students, Cheong Wai Kee and Tan Zhi Liang, were awarded the Yayasan MR. D.I.Y. Scholarship, which fully covers tuition, books, accommodation, and living expenses. Aimed at supporting students from lower-income families, the scholarship also offers internships at MR. D.I.Y. for practical experience. Both recipients expressed deep gratitude, noting that the award eases their families’ financial burdens and motivates them to excel academically while contributing positively to society and the MR. D.I.Y. community.
UTAR Scholarship award presentation ceremony for Octiber 2023 intake
20 November 2023
A total of 876 UTAR October 2023 intake students received internal and external scholarships at ceremonies held at Sungai Long and Kampar Campuses, benefiting 305 schools. UTAR President Prof Dato’ Ewe Hong Tat and university leaders encouraged recipients to use their education for societal impact. With over RM190 million in internal scholarships and RM15.3 million in loans awarded to more than 20,000 students, recipients expressed gratitude, emphasizing how financial support empowers academic excellence, personal growth, and future contributions to society.
FEGT students receive scholarships from Intel
11 July 2023
Two Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Electronic Engineering students from UTAR’s Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology, Cham Cheng Lim and Lee Yan Shen, were awarded scholarships by Intel Corporation. The scholarships cover yearly tuition fees and include career opportunities with Intel after graduation. Both recipients expressed gratitude for the financial support, guidance from lecturers, and encouragement from family and friends. The scholarships relieve financial burdens, enable personal growth, and inspire Cham and Lee to pursue excellence academically and professionally while preparing for future careers in the semiconductor industry.
Zchwantech signs agreements to provide scholarships to deserving UTAR students
8 June 2023
UTAR signed two agreements with Zchwantech Sdn Bhd at Sungai Long Campus, witnessed by university and company representatives. Under the collaborations, Zchwantech will provide scholarships for students in Computer Science, Information Systems Engineering, and Art and Design programmes, and donate RM100,000 to establish the “UTAR-ZCHWANTECH Scholarship for Top Achievers,” covering full tuition for two Business Administration and Finance students. The partnerships reflect Zchwantech’s commitment to education and UTAR’s support for students in need, enabling greater access to learning and academic excellence.
Five students receive scholarships from Rotary Club of Pudu
8 June 2023
Five UTAR students received scholarships from the Rotary Club of Pudu, awarded to those from financially disadvantaged families demonstrating outstanding academic performance. Each recipient received a one-time RM5,000 scholarship to support their studies in fields including Public Relations, Guidance and Counselling, Biomedical Science, Banking and Finance, and Computer Science. Recipients expressed gratitude for the financial support and recognition, highlighting how the scholarships relieve burdens, motivate perseverance, and inspire them to excel academically while contributing positively to society in the future.
Relevance Research Centre
Centre for Accounting, Banking & Finance
Centre for Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction
Centre for Mathematical Sciences
Future Goals & Vision
- Support 25,000 families through expanded community programmes.
- Launch regional poverty eradication network.
- Increase scholarship funding for underprivileged.
- Develop innovative poverty measurement and monitoring systems.
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