Over the weekend, flea market hunters flocked the Saloma Theater Restaurant where the Hitachi Charity Bazaar was held. Visitors from all walks of life came to support the cause organized by Hitachi Asia (Malaysia) in conjunction with its 100th Anniversary. Raising RM8,500, the funds were presented to the Global Peace Association (GPA) of Malaysia in support of the Character Education Programme (CEP).

Held on November 28, 2010, the opening ceremony was graced by YB Senator Dato’ Maznah Bt Mazlan, Deputy Minister of Human Resource, Malaysia.

At the Hitachi Charity Bazaar, visitors were able to find pre-loved items from home appliances, clothes for ladies, men and children, shoes, books to original CDs/DVDs and so much more. Also a part of Hitachi’s Corporate Responsibility commitment to help save the environment through recycling, the items for sale were donated by approximately 3,800 employees from 11 groups of companies under Hitachi Malaysia.

The GPA is a global movement of committed peace builders working in partnership based on common principles, values and aspirations. Under the association, CEP is a national programme that brings together the government, schools, NGOs, universities and family to work together in fostering ethical, responsible and caring children by modeling, teaching and instilling good character in them.

Asso Prof Normah Dali, Vice President of the GPA of Malaysia said, “There are many cases of social problems that our youths face today and we think our nation lack of character education. Through an emphasis on universal values that we all share, the CEP aims to reduce social ills and shape Malaysia as a ‘Nation of Character’. CEP will be implemented and be part of curriculum and co-curriculum programmes for primary and secondary schools”.

In the past 100 years, Hitachi has been dedicated in responding to the needs and expectation of society, while enriching the quality of life for a better community. As society changes, Hitachi will continually transform through constant innovation to meet the needs and demands of the next generation.