BY VERONICA YOW, ASIA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION In March 2025, Asia Philanthropy Circle (APC), in collaboration with Asia Community Foundation (ACF) and elea Foundation convened a dynamic group of funders, impact leaders, and social entrepreneurs for a candid and insightful session titled Unlocking Impact: A Deep Dive into elea’s Impact Measurement Methodology. Through the real-life case of BagoSphere—a human-centric venture upskilling Southeast Asia’s frontline workforce—participants gained a behind-the-scenes look at how elea’s methodology is applied not just to measure, but to manage and amplify social impact. The event served both as a learning session and a reflection on what it takes…
Reflections on the Go: Conversations, Crowdfunding and Collective Action in Indonesia
BY LIONEL LI, CHAIRMAN, LI FOUNDATION In May, I attended APC’s Indonesia Learning Journey, a week-long trip to Bali, Jakarta, and Kudus to learn about Indonesia’s place-based model of giving and philanthropy’s role in issues like environmental sustainability, vocational training, and sports development. I enjoyed the visit greatly and valued the opportunity to hear different perspectives from our APC members. Visiting the projects and programs run by Indonesian members was not only eye-opening but also inspired me to think further and deeper about my own practice of philanthropy, as well as how to sustain giving through the generations. This trip…
Investing in Integrated, Community-Activated and Data-Driven Approaches for Dignified Ageing
BY REBECCA LIM, PROJECT LEAD, ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY According to the Asian Development Bank, Asia and the Pacific are undergoing a profound demographic shift. With longer life expectancies and declining fertility rates, the region’s population is ageing rapidly. By 2050, one in four people will be over the age of 60. The health, social, and economic implications of this shift are far-reaching. Singapore is at the forefront of this transition. By 2030, one in four Singaporeans will be aged 65 and above. An estimated 122,000 seniors are expected to live alone, and around 100,000 may require assistance with at least…
Asian Philanthropy in a Changing World: Reflections from an Evening with Bill Gates
BY ANASTASIA KURNIADI, ASSOCIATE May marked a milestone month for our organisation and for the wider philanthropic community in Asia. We had an amazing opportunity to bring together our members and the Gates Foundation on the sidelines of Philanthropy Asia Summit 2025—in a conversation that included Bill Gates himself. In a record speed of 30 minutes, the discussion brought about a wealth of insights—sharp, relevant, and deeply resonant—as we find ourselves at a global inflection point in an age of uncertainty. Below are key reflections from the evening, which brought together funders committed to shaping a better future. Hope, Grounded…
Carrying the Torch, Lighting New Paths
BY ESTHER CHANG, CEO When I think about what first drew me to Asia Philanthropy Circle, it was the same spirit that continues to guide me today: a belief that when people come together with courage, generosity, and purpose—real, lasting change is possible. It is a true honour to step into this role as APC’s new CEO. I have always admired the way this community brings philanthropists together across borders—not only to exchange ideas, but to take bold, collective action on some of the most pressing challenges facing Asia. That kind of work does not happen by accident. It takes…