About 24,000 participants joined the annual UOB Heartbeat Run across several Asian markets, raising S$3.1 million for children and families supported by 25 charities worldwide. The event is part of United Overseas Bank’s (UOB) ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility programme, which focuses on art, children, and education.
This year’s Heartbeat Run took place not only in Singapore but also in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia during August and September. Activities included physical runs, carnivals, charity booths, and fundraising events such as a charity café, talent show, and auctions organized by UOB employees.
The 2025 edition coincides with UOB’s 90th anniversary and marks the 19th year of the Heartbeat Run initiative. Since its launch in 2007, the programme has raised over S$23 million for community causes. This year’s event surpassed last year’s fundraising total of S$2.4 million.
In Singapore alone, about S$2 million was raised at an event attended by approximately 10,000 people at the Promontory @Marina Bay. Funds collected will be distributed through Community Chest to benefit local organizations SHINE Children and Youth Services—under President’s Challenge—and The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund. These resources are expected to support more than 11,000 children and their families through programmes in education, mentoring, social care, and healthcare.
Mr Wee Ee Cheong, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of UOB said: “UOB has been steadfast in doing right by our communities. Through corporate giving and employee volunteerism, our people, customers, and partners come together to create meaningful impact. Our annual UOB Heartbeat Run is one way we make that difference. We are grateful to everyone who contributes to these efforts.”
Community Chest Chairman Mr Chew Sutat noted: “Since 2021, UOB has partnered with Community Chest to uplift children and families in need. Their annual UOB Heartbeat Run rallies both their employees and corporate partners to embrace the spirit of giving and give back to the community. UOB’s efforts to give holistically and sustainably are also demonstrated in the Community Chest Change for Charity initiative, enabling their customers to convert reward points into donation. These avenues provide precious resources that can provide quality education for children in need.”
At this year’s run in Singapore, six social enterprises—including Artably; Artisan Collab; Flour Power; Singapore Fashion Runway; Extra.Ordinary People—sold products crafted by individuals with special needs or different abilities. UOB committed to matching funds raised from these sales dollar-for-dollar.
Food vendors donated a portion of proceeds from event sales towards beneficiary organizations while other partners contributed goods or services as sponsorships.
Environmental measures were emphasized at the event: participants were encouraged to bring reusable water bottles; race T-shirts were made from post-consumer recycled materials; medals used recycled content; food service utilized biodegradable cutlery; there was a donation drive for pre-loved clothes; educational booths focused on sustainability themes; volunteers guided attendees on proper waste disposal practices.