Projek57: Setting sights on Tunku’s vision of unity

“Our future depends on how well many different kinds of people can live and work together.” – Tunku Abdul Rahman

Unity as envisioned by Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s founding father, is still alive through Projek57, a social enterprise that works primarily with Orang Asli youths for their well-being.

Founded in 2015 by two buddies in their early 40s over a cup of coffee at a café, Projek57 started out to "set the trajectory right” on issues surrounding unity.

“We didn’t want to just be the guys that talk about it in a café or mamak joints; we wanted to be the ones to initiate and share the conversation with others,” said Syed Sadiq Albar, one of the two co-founders of the organisation.

He shared that he and his partner, Collin Swee, whom he had the privilege of working with for a long time, did not want to set up a non-governmental organisation or charity but were very intrigued by the concept of a social enterprise.

“It’s business for impact. That way, we could have a sustainable business to carry out all the projects we wanted to do,” he said.

Projek57 sells a range of nationalistic merchandise, such as elements of Merdeka and Tunku Abdul Rahman, adding a touch of what they felt was “cool” to connect with the younger crowd.

Syed also shared that initially, the idea was about how two guys of different races could work together so well. Still, as time passed, they realised it was all about “friendship, trust and mutual respect.”

Determined to spread positive vibes that emphasise commonalities over differences, Projek57 became a Movement of Hope with the belief that the core values or “pantang” of each culture are similar and not divisive. This, in his opinion, is to rise above the pettiness and racial politics peddled by the politicians.

Acknowledging the chasm between races that has slowly widened over the years, Projek57 actively seeks to reduce religious tensions, prejudices, and insecurities that have impacted interracial relationships.

“We need to change the narrative, but we need a critical mass of people to adopt the spirit that our country holds much hope and promise. By shifting mindsets, we can transform Malaysia into the great nation it has the potential to be,” he said.

Syed also lamented the lack of recognition for Malaysia’s founding father, commonly known as “Bapa Kemerdekaan” or the “Father of Independence” and “Father of the Nation.” He expressed regret that, while many people could recall famous quotes from American presidents, few could remember those of Tunku Abdul Rahman. As an example, he cited Tunku's words: “We are all Malaysians; that is the bond that unites us.”

Touching on why it is called Projek57 rather than Projek63, Syed said he was convinced that it was the year 1957 which laid the foundation, with its aspirations carried through to 1963, the year Malaysia was formed. He added that it was something he and Collin discussed before deciding on finalising on the name Projek57, while acknowledging that there was still a lot to learn from Sabah and Sarawak.

Community Engagements

Besides promoting unity, Projek57 actively engages with youths from the Orang Asli minorities and minority groups through projects, dialogues and workshops. The organisation also alerts the youths about scholarship opportunities, internships and collaborations with universities and corporate partners.

Syed revealed that working with the Orang Asli community happened by chance when someone recommended an Orang Asli to work in their social enterprise’s retail outlet, which sells polo T-shirts and unity ribbon lapels.

“We jumped at the opportunity and the rest is history,” he proudly said, adding that they have been supporting this segment of the community for more than 8 years now. All profits from the retail shop goes to the empowerment of Orang Asli youths and the underprivileged.

For more information on Projek57, please visit: https://www.projek57.com

Support Change, Support Unity

Unity isn’t just a word—it’s a call to action that Projek57 is answering every day. By supporting Projek57 through Sokong, you’re not only helping Orang Asli youth and marginalised communities; you’re standing for a Malaysia where everyone has the chance to thrive. Let’s make Tunku Abdul Rahman’s vision of a united, hopeful nation a reality, one step at a time. Together, we can create a future we can all be proud of. Join us at Sokong to be a part of this inspiring journey. — Donate Now!