Why Corporate Social Responsibility Matters in Finance: EBC’s Perspective on Community Empowerment

Community Empowerment

At EBC Financial Group, we believe that the financial sector’s true value is measured not only by market performance, but by the positive impact it creates in the communities it serves. In an industry often defined by numbers and transactions, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a vital way to foster trust, inclusion, and long-term social well-being.

CSR as a Core Value in Finance

The financial industry has a unique responsibility. Our reach and resources allow us to do more than facilitate transactions—we can help build stronger, more resilient communities. CSR is not just a public relations exercise; it is a commitment to using our capabilities for the greater good. As a global financial group, we see it as our duty to set a standard for responsible business.

Community Empowerment in Action: The Berdikari Elderly Cottage Initiative

Our recent Ramadan CSR initiative at Berdikari Elderly Cottage in Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia, is a clear example of this philosophy in action. The project was designed to address both immediate and long-term needs of the elderly residents, focusing on three main areas: facility upgrades, community engagement, and sustained support.

Our team of EBC volunteers worked together to repair critical bathroom facilities, improving comfort and accessibility for the 29 elderly residents. We also provided grocery packages tailored to their nutritional needs, easing the burden on the home’s management for the coming months.

But CSR is about more than material support. As part of the event, we organised a recreational colouring session and shared an iftar meal with the residents and staff. These moments of connection are just as important as the physical improvements. As Febrian Saputra, our Business Development Manager and volunteer, reflected, “Seeing the smiles, hearing the stories, and simply being present with the residents reminded us that impact goes beyond donations. It’s about human connection.”

Real Impact, Real Stories

The feedback from the community was deeply meaningful. Mr. Soleh, a caregiver at Berdikari Elderly Cottage, shared, “The assistance we received from EBC Financial Group has made a huge difference in our daily operations. It allows us to provide better care to our elderly residents, and most importantly, it reminds us that they are valued and cared for by the wider community.”

These words reinforce our belief that financial institutions can—and should—play a direct role in improving lives.

Looking Beyond One Event

Our commitment to Indonesia extends far beyond this single initiative. In the past, we have supported mosque renovations and orphaned children, and we are planning future projects such as educational scholarships, environmental initiatives, and financial literacy programmes. We believe that real impact is measured by lives touched, not just numbers.

Setting a Standard for the Industry

We encourage our peers in the financial sector to view CSR as an opportunity to build trust and resilience in the communities they serve. When financial institutions invest in social responsibility, they help create a more inclusive and sustainable society—one that benefits everyone, including the industry itself.

Conclusion

At EBC Financial Group, we are proud to champion corporate social responsibility as a core part of our mission. By engaging directly with communities and focusing on meaningful, long-term impact, we aim to set a standard for responsible finance. We invite others in the industry to join us in making a lasting, positive difference—because together, we can empower communities and build a brighter future for all.