KUALA LUMPUR: As companies continue to struggle under restrictions and weak demand, media agency Universal McCann is looking to raise support for local businesses via an upcoming virtual auction.

       The virtual livestream, which will be carried out on its Friends of UM Facebook page on July 22 from 9.45am onwards, will also provide businesses with an additional platform to drive sales, said Universal McCann & Ensemble Worldwide chief executive officer Audrey Chong.

       Proceeds from the auction will go towards supporting 50 local businesses and individuals whose livelihoods have been severely impacted by the pandemic.

       The auction is held in conjunction with its UM Impact Day, a global CSR event for Universal McCann (UM).

       UM Impact Day is currently in its fourth year. Last year, it raised RM16,000 to support various non-governmental organisations.

       Chong noted that small businesses have suffered big losses as movement restrictions prolong and the operating environment remains challenging.

       “The hardest hit are our small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and local businesses. There are over one million SMEs in Malaysia and many have dipped into their savings to stay afloat. The latest rounds of lockdown may be a turning point for their survival.

       “In 2020, 100,000 companies ceased operations and it is anticipated that at least another 50,000 will be out of business at the latest extension,” she said.

       She added that UM intends to stand in solidarity with local businesses and is focusing on its UM Impact Day efforts this year to draw support for them.

       “Those who have lost their jobs and are working independently, those in food services, entertainment, fitness, beauty and a multitude of everyday stores and services that make up our diverse economy in Malaysia – we have rallied our UM troops and are shining a spotlight on 50 of these businesses to help promote their products and services through our virtual auction livestream on Impact Day this year.

       “We will be inviting our friends and families to participate alongside the team in the auction and to drive sales for these businesses.

       “Our efforts may be a drop in the ocean. But our hope is that this movement and message of support and hope for local businesses will spread throughout Malaysia,” she said.

       Stories of the selected businesses can be found at https://www.facebook.com/UMMalaysia, where the livestream will also be held.