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Empowering Progress: Malaysia's Commitment Through the MNCU Contribution Grant (GSS)
United for Peace and Progress
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was founded on 16 November 1945 in London to build peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture. Aligned with UNESCO’s mission, Malaysia proudly became a member on 16 June 1958.
In accordance with Article VII of the UNESCO Constitution, Malaysia established the Malaysian National Commission for UNESCO (MNCU) on 7 July 1966 under the Ministry of Education. MNCU acts as a bridge — advising, coordinating, and promoting all UNESCO-related activities nationally.
To support UNESCO's competencies and the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Agenda 2030, MNCU launched the MNCU Contribution Grant (GSS). Since its inception in 2008, GSS has seed-funded over 350 projects across education, science, social science, culture, communication, and information sectors — all driving Malaysia’s national priorities forward.
The GSS program is open to government bodies and civil society organizations, subject to fund availability and the approval of the GSS Evaluation Committee.
Together, we empower communities and inspire sustainable futures.
Who Can Apply?
Preference is given to:- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
- Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
- UNESCO-affiliated clubs and networks (ASPnet, UNESCO Clubs, UNESCO Chairs, etc.)
Application Requirements
All proposals must:- Be submitted through the appropriate Permanent Sub-Committee (JKT) relevant to the field (e.g. education, culture, science).
- Clearly link activities to specific SDGs and indicators.
- Outline long-term societal impact and community involvement.
- Be completed within 6 months.
- Include government policy references where relevant.
- Include organizational registration documents (for NGOs/CSOs), verified bank statements (no personal accounts), and use the official application form.
- Adhere to the deadline: 31 October 2024 at 5:00 PM.
- Infrastructure or asset purchases
- Staff salaries or allowances
- Travel and accommodation costs
- Prizes, honorariums, or commercial activities
Priority Areas
Funding favors programs that address:- Heritage preservation (e.g. Memory of the World documents)
- Climate change adaptation and resource management
- Vulnerable group advocacy (disabled, children, women)
- Digital transformation & AI governance
- Youth mental wellness & capacity building
- Education for Sustainable Development
- Global citizenship & humanistic education
- STEAM and TVET education
- Cultural conservation
How to Apply
- Prepare your application and submit to the relevant JKT focal point (see contact list).
- Ensure your application is endorsed by JKT.
- Email a copy to SKUM for records: skum.gss@moe.gov.my
Contact
Malaysian National Commission for UNESCO (SKUM)
Strategic Planning and International Relations Division
Ministry of Education Malaysia
Level 7, Block E8, Complex E, Federal Government Administrative Centre, 62604 Putrajaya
