Creating Community Connection in Kuala Lumpur

Goal/Description: What is the intent and aim of the initiative?

The overall intent and aim of this effort was to create learning and skilling opportunities for children living in the bottom 40 communities within Kuala Lumpur. This specific initiative was a test version of a larger piece of community development that will see Lendlease support this model across five additional neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur. 

What are the tangible outcomes that we achieved?

By working with our local on-the-ground partner, Surprise Ventures, Lendlease has improved sporting facilities, hosted theatre workshops and various other arts and crafts initiatives to bring together children within the local housing commissions. One in three of these children have never have played with a toy or connected socially with others in their housing commission. 

Why is this initiative important?

Through Lendlease’s project, The Exchange TRX, we have become a part of the local community by understanding and identifying the social issues affecting our neighbours. Lendlease aims to provide these children with connection, skilling and training. 

Key steps to make it happen (the How). 

Since 1996, Lendlease has been running Community Day, a program where Lendlease employees volunteer their time to support local initiatives. Through connections with Surprise Ventures and the Lendlease Community Day program, the Perumahan Awam Neighbourhood was chosen as a key place to further our positive impact. Our Sustainability team worked with the local community to identify activities to engage local children to create positive outcomes and opportunities. 

Impact to date (or intended impact): 

The local Lendlease team has volunteered to assist with the refurbishment of sporting courts, a celebratory futsal tournament to show off the new courts, and arts and crafts workshops where children took part in performances during their Community Carnival.