Charity Art Auction Raises Almost RM40K For Hydroelectric Power Project In Sabah

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The event was hosted by Collektr, Asia's leading livestreaming platform for collectibles, in partnership with Hannah Bhatt, a Sabahan artist and founder of The Uncanny Valley Studios, as well as Light Up Borneo, an NGO that promotes access to electricity and lighting in Borneo's vast interior.

The auction proved to be highly successful, reaching its target in under an hour by raising over RM38,000!

The funds raised will be channeled to Light Up Borneo's hydroelectric power project for Kg Sumatalun in Pagalungan, Sabah, located nine hours away from Kota Kinabalu town. The money will be used to provide hydroelectric power to 28 houses and two public buildings, significantly improving the quality of life for its residents.

It featured 20 exquisite ceramic works sculpted by Hannah Bhatt, adorned with illustrations and paintings from esteemed artists. This included the creative minds of Pangrok Sulap, a Malaysian collective of artists, musicians, and social activists dedicated to empowering rural communities and the marginalised through art.

Collektr facilitated the bidding and auction process, providing a regional platform for art enthusiasts to engage with the artworks and contribute to lighting up Kg Sumatalun.

While the primary goal has been met, there are still pieces available for purchase, allowing continued support for this vital project.

"We are overwhelmed by the generosity and support from the community," expressed Saida Azizi, co-founder of Collektr.

"This auction not only highlights the brilliance of local artists such as Afi Sulaiman, Ajim Juxta, Cheng Hao Yuan, Dianne T (Misorama Studios), Drewfunk, Fay Ulrica, Firdauz Baharudin (Seburba), Fritilldea, Haris Rashid, Kenji Chai, Kevin Loo, Lisa Wong Sook Kuan, Liu Hsin Ying, Nurul Atika, OLI, Pangrok Sulap, Su ann (Wayang Kulit Tatu), Trina Teoh, and Venice Chau Xhien, who have been collaborating with Hannah; we are also igniting a movement where every bid becomes a beacon of hope, making a tangible impact in the lives of those in need," she added.

Meanwhile, Hannah Bhatt shared, "As an artist rooted in Sabahan culture, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of art. Teaming up with Collektr for the Light Up Borneo project allows me to not only showcase Sabahan art but also illuminate paths to a brighter future for my community."

Notable efforts include Pangrok Sulap's initiatives to support rural education, Haris Rashid's collaboration with environmental NGOs to protect local wildlife, and Kenji Chai's urban art projects to raise awareness and funds for homeless shelters in Kuala Lumpur.

These contributions have highlighted the role of art in driving social change, fostering a culture of giving, and supporting communities in need. Collektr's innovative live streaming bidding capabilities offer a unique opportunity to expand this impact, making charitable auctions accessible to a wider audience and maximising participation and engagement.

The success of 'The Gift of Light' underscores the power of collective effort and the transformative role of art in driving positive change.

Collektr remains committed to using art as a vehicle for social impact, revolutionising how collectibles are bought, sold, and cherished, while fostering a community where every bid becomes a beacon of hope. The platform's dedication to supporting artists and charitable causes highlights its mission to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and communities.