The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has issued the Guidelines on Social Exchange Platforms to pave the way for the country’s first social exchange, which will help non-profit organisations (NPOs) raise funds for eligible social impact projects.
The guidelines set out requirements for platform operators and NPOs, including eligibility, disclosure and mandatory reporting to assure donors on how funds are used and the outcomes achieved.
According to the SC, the initiative expands the role of Malaysia’s capital market in supporting the country’s third sector and its broader sustainability and inclusion agenda, while instilling greater trust in fundraising by NPOs.
The exchange is intended to provide a transparent avenue for NPOs to access funding and for donors to track the impact of their contributions.
Applications to operate a social exchange opened on 19 September 2025, with the Guidelines taking effect immediately. The SC said interested NPOs can review the requirements to prepare for participation.
SC Chairman Dato’ Mohammad Faiz Azmi said,
“Aligned with the priorities of the 13th Malaysia Plan, the Social Exchange ensures transparency and accountability in fundraising towards social impact projects.
This will strengthen public trust and mobilise more resources towards meaningful social impact.”
Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Malaysia, based on image by Freepik
