CSR – A Worthy Cause

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill.

In today contemporary business world, making profit is no longer the ultimatum of a corporate but how it functions and projects itself as a corporate citizen is what matters most.
20 years ago, there was no such thing like CSR in Vietnam, even the slightest hint. Having the privilege of setting the CSR in motion, though quite unconsciously at the time, and subsequently being fortunate to lead the CSR agenda of a major MNC for a span of more than two decades, I have grown profoundly passionate with the cause as it has widely and deeply got set in. Overcoming the various challenges of lacking awareness, appreciation and especially a systematic approach to CSR in the business community at first, I am delighted that many local companies have now stepped up to contribute back to the society – the social unit without which there would be absolutely no reason for their existence.
While being mindful that corporate social responsibility goes beyond voluntarism and philanthropy as there is more to be involved, the continuity of such effort via an integrated approach is an important consideration for businesses as they remain heavily relying on the support and validation of worthiness from the community.
“The emphasis placed by more and more companies on corporate social responsibility symbolizes the recognition that prosperity is best achieved in an inclusive society”, Tony Blair – former UK PM once asserted. Thus, CSR is exactly a two-way street where the perceived benefits fare both ways, mutually and interdependently. No business can be righteously thrived at the expense of the community it is in.
With increased criticality, as a result, CSR has become an integral part of the corporate’s strategy to ensure its sustainable development. It purports us to be a positive force for change in our communities and conscientiously drive sustainability and innovation into the value chain to better off as a whole eventually. To do so, we must be absolutely insightful and sensitive to the multiple issues facing our concerned community, at the same time address them with great care and cognizance.
Sustainability is a journey with no end, and so does CSR. So let’s stay committed on course!

PHAM PHU NGOC TRAI
Chairman of PRO Vietnam
Global Integration Business Consultant (GIBC)
Leading Business Club (LBC).