Singapore Children's Society donor Alvin Yapp, 46, is the embodiment of "rasa sayang", the title of a popular Malay folk song which means "full of love".

The head of corporate affairs at a printing firm raised $338,913 for the society over the past two years by combining his love for Peranakan culture, music and charity into very personal yearly fund-raising events.

The next event, on Sept 4, is another Peranakan-themed night of food and music, held at a Joo Chiat shophouse that is a Peranakan museum by day and Mr Yapp's home by night. Visitors will pledge donations to the society to help with its programmes and activities for children and families in need.

The society said the money would be used to support programmes that rebuild a child's sense of self-worth and character, and instil values and life skills.

Mr Yapp's efforts were recognised yesterday when he was given a Platinum Award at the Singapore Children's Society's awards presentation ceremony at Pan Pacific Singapore. The award is given annually to those who raise between $300,000 and $499,000.

He was one of 52 donors and volunteers who last night received awards from Mr Ong Ye Kung, Acting Minister for Education (Higher Education and Skills).

Said Mr Yapp: "It shows that we don't need organisations or government bodies to make a difference. Individuals can do so, too."

Volunteer Tay Chiew Teck, 39, a process innovation manager at Singapore Polytechnic, also received a Platinum Service Award, given to those who have served for at least 15 years.

Thanking the volunteers and donors, chairman of the Singapore Children's Society Koh Choon Hui said: "What we do tonight... is a small gesture in comparison to the countless hours and resources given by our volunteers and donors to continue to make a difference, transforming the lives of our beneficiaries and making Singapore a better place for all."

•For more on Mr Yapp's fund-raising, e-mail contactus@the-intan.com