HD Asia Peace Fund Marks Second Anniversary

This month, the HD Asia Peace Fund celebrates its second anniversary. Launched with the generous founding support of the Nagulendran Philanthropy Alliance, the Fund harnesses private philanthropy to strengthen HD’s work in preventing and resolving armed conflicts in Asia through dialogue, mediation, and discreet diplomacy.

Since its inception, the Fund has attracted additional philanthropic partners, including a foundation, a corporate and members of the public, enabling HD to expand initiatives that foster trust among conflict parties, address root causes of violence, and promote sustainable peace across the region.

Ms. Wu Ye-Min, HD’s Regional Director for the Asia-Pacific, said:

“The Nagulendran Philanthropy Alliance, founded by Dorothy and John Nagulendran, provided critical support at a pivotal moment. Their early investment enabled HD to launch new initiatives that have inspired further philanthropic engagement in peacemaking across the Asia-Pacific. I am grateful to all our partners and look forward to welcoming new collaborators who share our vision for lasting, sustainable peace.”

One key initiative supported by the Fund is the Bangsamoro Mediators’ Forum in the Philippines, a learning event bringing together local mediators across Mindanao to foster a community of practice. Following the success of the first Forum, HD is hosting the second Forum this month, now expanded to include youth leaders from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

The Fund also played a critical role in enabling the swift facilitation of humanitarian assistance delivery in the aftermath of natural disasters and in rapid response efforts during sudden escalations of conflict.

Mr. David Harland, HD’s Executive Director, said:

“Peace is never quick. Our work in Asia over more than 20 years — from contributing to the peace in Aceh in Indonesia to supporting the Bangsamoro peace process in the Philippines — shows that lasting peace requires patience, persistence, and sustained commitment. Private philanthropy is critically important in this work: the HD Asia Peace Fund provides the resources and flexibility needed to engage early, build trust, and sustain dialogue over the long term.”

For more information on HD’s work in Asia and globally, please visit hdcentre.org