Indonesian billionaire chips in to help Global Fund

The Indonesian banking and property mogul Dato Sri Tahir has donated 75 million US dollars towards programs for Indonesia's most needy. Ten million are for family planning, and 65 million for The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The billionaire's gift is the largest donation the Fund has ever received from an individual in a developing country. Besides, Bill Gates through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is also donating 65 million dollars to the Global Fund. The money will be used for prevention activities against HIV and AIDS. Moreover, the Fund has distributed 8.8 million bednets for malaria and supports detection and treatment of TB. Although philanthropy for social welfare isn't too familiar in Indonesia, wealthy individuals in Asia will be encouraged to give more generously if they see their contribution is being put to good use.