Doing Good Index (DGI) 2018 is a study based on a set of indicators that are taken together to show the regulatory and institutional infrastructure enabling or impeding philanthropic giving. Four main areas were covered – regulatory regimes, tax and fiscal policy, government procurement, and socio-cultural ecosystem.
The Index revealed how Asian economies are catalyzing philanthropic giving. In terms of numbers, DGI is impressive. The project was massive in its scope and reach:
1. 15 Asian economies (countries) including China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam;
2. The survey was translated into 11 languages;
3. A total of 1,579 social delivery organizations (SDOs) from 15 Asian economies took part in the survey, which was carried out from January to April 2017. SDOs included NGOs, nonprofits, foundations, and social enterprises; and
4. 122 Malaysian SDOs throughout the country took part in the survey.
Addressing complex challenges requires multi-sector and multi-stakeholder involvement. By identifying the enablers and barriers to progress, the Index can direct stakeholders’ efforts to the location. Understanding specific factors that matter and providing a clearer understanding of moving-forward plan can unleash the potential of private social investment and philanthropy in Asia.
If achievable, the Doing Good Index could significantly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Driving the initiative was the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS), an action-oriented research and advisory organization committed to improving the quantity and quality of private social investment in Asia. CAPS is operating in Hong Kong.
Instead of outright rankings, DGI measured the performance in terms of four clusters - Doing Well , Doing Better , Doing Okay , and Not Doing Enough . Each cluster represents the distance left to travel toward a conducive environment for doing good.
Joining Malaysia in the Doing Better cluster were Hong Kong, Korea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam, all trailing behind Japan, Singapore and Taiwan who led the pack in the Doing Well cluster. In the third cluster, Doing Okay, were China, India and Pakistan while Indonesia and Myanmar were placed in the Not Doing Enough cluster. Overall, no economy has yet reached its full potential, even those in the Doing Well cluster. There is ample room for improvement across the board.
Source : Focus Malaysia | Centre of Asian for Philanthropy and Society Official Website
