WELL-KNOWN businessman Kwek Leng Joo has donated 18 photographs he took of rare flowers to support charity concert ChildAid's efforts to help under- privileged students here.

The event's co-organisers, The Business Times and The Straits Times, hope to raise at least $500,000 from the sale of the photos at between $20,000 and $50,000 each.

The money will go to the papers' Budding Artists Fund and School Pocket Money Fund respectively.

"The young, just like nature, can be fragile. They must be nurtured so that they can bloom to their fullest potential. I sincerely hope that my works can help needy children to realise their dreams," said Mr Kwek, 58, managing director of property giant City Developments Limited.

The avid photographer took the photos - which will be exhibited at The Arts House at The Old Parliament from Oct 14 to 18 - this year at Gardens by the Bay and the Australian National Botanic Gardens in Canberra.

Sales of his photos and books over the years have raised more than $1.5 million for charitable causes.

The Budding Artists Fund helps artistically gifted children from less-fortunate backgrounds to hone their talents.

The School Pocket Money Fund, which celebrated its 12th anniversary yesterday, helps needy children with school expenses.

Mr Alvin Tay, 57, editor of The Business Times, said proceeds from the sale of the 18 photos will go a long way in helping the 10,300 students supported by the two funds.

This year's ChildAid concert will be held on Dec 7 and 8 at Marina Bay Sands. Last year's concert raised a record $1.88 million for the two funds.

DAVID EE