Continuing their commitment, Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd and its partner, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently announced the opening for new applications for the Honda Dreams Fund, the third year since its launch in April 2007.
With 40 scholars today enrolled in the courses of their choice and taking the first step towards achieving their dreams, 20 more will soon be given this similar life-changing opportunity. The Honda Dreams Fund (HDF) aims to provide full and non-binding scholarships to 20 underprivileged, but determined students annually to pursue higher education or skills training.
Honda Malaysia reiterated its commitment of RM1 million again this year for HDF in its quest to continuously search for the most deserving and to reach out to youths who ‘have the dreams but not the means’. Last year, HDF reached out to the indigenous communities in rural Sabah, Sarawak, Pahang and Perak.
Honda believes that everyone deserves an opportunity and is focusing on the plight of the underprivileged youths in Malaysia who does not have the means or the funds to achieve their dreams and aspirations.
The Fund covers tertiary education/skills training fees and provides allowances to meet living expenses for the duration of their courses. Deserving candidates can choose any courses of their choice in any institution in Malaysia.
Entry requirements and eligibility for Honda Dreams Fund:
- It is open to Malaysians aged between 17 – 24 years of age who have at least completed and passed the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) or Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM) examination. (especially for candidates wishing to pursue formal tertiary education in local universities/institutes of higher learning)
- Combined Household Income of less than RM1,500 per month
- Candidates must not be receiving any bursaries or financial aid from other organizations, agencies or government.
To apply, candidates are required to write an essay on their aspirations in realizing their dreams in not more than 500 words. Application forms will appear in major newspapers beginning 5th January 2009 and the closing date for entries is 31st March 2009.
Since its inception, UNDP has been involved in the project to manage and oversee the awards of the scholarships. The organization will be working with an independent advisory panel comprising members from various NGOs in the screening and selection processes.
Through both the “Rhino Rescue Project” and the “Honda Dreams Fund”, Honda Malaysia is committed to give back to Malaysia and Malaysians and become a company that society wants to exist. For more information on the Honda Dreams Fund, please visit the website at www.honda.com.my.
