PETALING JAYA: The Crown Prince of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah Ibni Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj has called on Malaysians to unite in empowering the nation's youth through collective efforts and strategic partnerships.
Through his non-profit organisation, Selangor Youth Community (SAY), that he founded in 2017, the crown prince on Saturday played host and graced the 2024 Selangor Crown Prince Golf Charity Cup at the Tropicana Golf & Country Resort in Petaling Jaya.
The tournament, now in its second year, raised RM1.2 million, marking a significant milestone for the group in helping some of the most vulnerable segments of society.
"Today is about more than just a game of golf; it's about making a real difference in the lives of those who need us most," Tengku Amir said.
He highlighted the impact of the TEAM Programme Malaysia, an initiative aimed at transforming the lives of at-risk youth.
Tengku Amir said that the programme, a collaboration between SAY and King's Trust International– a global support network under the patronage of England's King Charles III, has reached nearly 170 young people this year alone.
These include orphans, young offenders, those battling drug addiction, and unemployed youth from low-income families.
"We are unwavering in our commitment to uplifting and empowering our youth. Through the dedication of our community and the generosity of our partners, we are building a movement that unites diverse sectors for a common cause," he said.
He credited the success to the collective contributions of sponsors, including Titijaya Land Bhd, the Albukhary Foundation, and Cypark Resources Bhd, as well as long-time supporters like Sunway Group and Nestle Malaysia.
"These partnerships demonstrate what we can achieve when businesses, non-profits, and the community come together," Tengku Amir said.
The crown prince also revealed plans to publish a comprehensive report on the programme's outcomes to ensure transparency and highlight the transformations achieved.
He called on partners and supporters to continue championing the initiative.
"Let us create more success stories, more opportunities, and more hope for those who need it most. Together, we can ensure the TEAM Programme becomes not just an initiative but a legacy that defines our compassion and commitment to justice," he said.
SAY chief executive officer (CEO) Aiman Nazri says that there are plans to expand the TEAM programme outside of Selangor.
"In the last three years, the areas we've focused on are within the Klang Valley area. But there has been a request to expand the programme not just within Selangor or the rural parts of Selangor, but to other states too.
"So, that's why we believe collaboration is key. Collaborating with other NGOs (non-governmental organisations) for example, to help us deliver the programme for other at-risk youths in more areas so that we are able to create a larger impact."
The event also featured an auction, with a private tour of the Alam Shah Palace for the highest bidder, raising an additional RM140,000.
This year's Selangor Crown Prince Golf Charity Cup, which featured 132 golfers, concluded with a celebratory luncheon and a prize-giving ceremony.