About 24,000 people participated in the annual UOB Heartbeat Run, raising S$3.1 million for 25 charities worldwide. The event is part of United Overseas Bank’s (UOB) ongoing efforts to support children and families in need through its UOB Heartbeat Fund.
The physical run took place not only in Singapore but also across Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia during August and September. Each location hosted local festivities such as carnivals and charity booths alongside the main run.
The UOB Heartbeat Run is a key volunteering and fundraising program that brings together employees, partners, and customers every year. Activities leading up to the event included a charity café, talent show, auctions, and other fundraising initiatives organized by staff.
Since its launch in 2007, the program has raised over S$23 million for causes related to art, children’s welfare, and education—areas aligned with UOB’s corporate social responsibility focus.
This year marks both the 19th edition of the Heartbeat Run and UOB’s 90th anniversary (UOB90). The milestone resulted in increased participation from social enterprises and partners compared to previous years. Funds raised surpassed last year’s total of S$2.4 million. A music festival featuring Singaporean artists Nathan Hartono, Jasmine Sokko, Regina Song, Jeff Ng, and Jack & Rai was held as part of this year’s expanded activities.
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.”
In Singapore alone this year about S$2 million was raised with around 10,000 participants at the Promontory @Marina Bay on October 11. The funds will be distributed via Community Chest to two local beneficiaries: SHINE Children and Youth Services under President’s Challenge; and The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund. These organizations will use the money for programs focused on education as well as social services aimed at supporting more than 11,000 children or youth along with their families.
Mr Chew Sutat—Chairman of Community Chest—noted: “Since 2021,UOB has partnered with Community Chest to uplift children and families in need.Their annual UOB Heartbeat Run rallies both their employeesand corporate partnersto embrace thespiritof givingand give back tothe community.UOB’sefforts togive holisticallyandsustainablyare alsodemonstratedintheCommunityChestChangeforCharityinitiative,enablingtheircustomerstoconvertrewardpointsintodonation.These avenues provide precious resources that can provide quality education for children in need.”
Six social enterprises sold goods crafted by individuals with special needs at the event; UOB pledged dollar-for-dollar matching on these sales. Food vendors contributed a portion of proceeds toward beneficiary organizations while additional sponsors provided products or services for free.
Sustainability measures were also introduced at this year’s run: participants were encouraged to bring reusable water bottles; T-shirts were made from recycled materials; medals used recycled content; biodegradable utensils replaced single-use plastics; pre-loved clothing was collected for donation; educational booths promoted environmental awareness; volunteers helped direct waste into proper bins.
