Updates from Asia
Manisha Shah shares updates from GPC members based in Asia
Ajay Piramal — At the intersection of technology and inclusion, Ajay Piramal reflected on how AI is expanding access to credit and public services for underserved communities across India, while also warning that it could deepen inequality if education and skills gaps are not addressed. Through the Piramal Foundation, AI-powered tools are helping village leaders and girls navigate government services and scholarship systems more effectively — illustrating both the promise and responsibility of inclusive innovation.
Read more here.
Sonia Tsao — At the Philanthropy Asia Summit, Sonia Tsao reflected on the importance of ensuring that Asia’s energy transition is not only rapid, but also equitable and locally grounded. The discussion highlighted how access to reliable and affordable energy underpins livelihoods, resilience, productivity, and opportunity — reinforcing that energy transitions must remain closely connected to people’s everyday realities.
Read more on LinkedIn.
Cherie Nursalim — United In Diversity Foundation convened a dialogue on Bali’s emerging International Financial Centre and the future of a more connected Southeast Asian financial ecosystem. The discussion explored how the initiative could strengthen regional collaboration, attract global capital, and advance sustainable and inclusive growth across ASEAN through blended finance, innovation, and cross-sector partnerships.
Learn more about the United in Diversity Foundation by clicking here.
Joy Lo Chueng — At a Legacy Townhall hosted by the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy, Joy Lo reflected on how her family’s values have shaped the foundation’s long-term approach to catalytic philanthropy. Drawing on examples from soybean research, employment support for visually impaired graduates, and social entrepreneurship education, she emphasized the importance of sustained focus, community collaboration, measuring meaningful impact beyond financial returns, and knowing when to strategically step back so successful initiatives can scale further.
Read more on Linkedin.