Microsoft Malaysia today announced donations amounting to RM1.7 million cash and software grants to three non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Malaysia.

Its legal and corporate affairs director Jasmine Begum said the grants would support the NGOs to deliver technology skills and training through a network of more than 29 community technology learning centres.

"These grants are part of Microsoft Malaysia's ongoing initiatives to transform communities and strengthen local economies," she told reporters after the Microsoft Unlimited Programme Grants Award ceremony today.

"Microsoft Malaysia works very closely with NGOs to help them advance social and economic development and benefit their constituencies," she said.

To date, Microsoft Malaysia has given close to RM3.1 million in cash and software grants to various organisations since 2004.

YWCA, YSM and Mercy Malaysia

The three NGOs chosen for the latest donations were the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA), Yayasan Salam Malaysia (YSM) and Mercy Malaysia.

YWCA and YSM were awarded the Unlimited Potential - Community Technology Skills Programme which will help provide people across the country with the opportunity to learn basic computing and technology skills.

Mercy Malaysia was awarded the Large Software Grant to enhance its relief support, making it faster and more efficient through the use of information and communications technology (ICT).

Among the initiatives supported by the grants are programmes aimed at equipping communities with IT skills, as well as several programmes targeted at the long-term unemployed, youth and women.

"The combination of technology and education is a proven and powerful way to stimulate workforce development and create social and economy opportunity," Jasmine said.

"In the current economic climate, understanding how technology can help you start or grow your business, or simply having the basic technology skills to secure employment is critical," she said.

- Bernama