World's most famous persons

Jul 11, 2011

Ex-dropout's $1m a year to help poor children

Businessman S.M. Jaleel, a school dropout who began work as a construction worker, has set up a foundation to pump $1 million a year into causes for disadvantaged children. -- ST PHOTO: ASHLEIGH SIM

BUSINESSMAN S.M. Jaleel, 53, grew up poor but now leads a company that builds and runs workers' dormitories.

The philanthropist, a school dropout who began work as a construction worker, has set up a foundation to pump $1 million a year into causes for disadvantaged children.

The launch of the S.M. Jaleel Foundation on Sunday coincided with the presentation of $660,000 to 12 charities, including Mendaki and the Chinese Development Assistance Council.

The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund, which gives underprivileged children money for recess, received the largest sum - $200,000.

Mr Jaleel said the rest of this year's million will go towards individuals.

He said at the cheque presentation at the Hotel Fort Canning: 'We arrive in this world with nothing and go in the end with nothing. Why not share a part of what you have accumulated and make life better for those in real need?'

Read the full story in Monday's edition of The Straits Times.