Corporate Social Responsibility of First Security Islami Bank

The main objective of this report is to discuss and analysis about the Corporate Social Responsibility activities of First Security Islami Bank Limited in Bangladesh. First Security Islami Bank Limited is dedicated itself towards the welfare of the society. Under this issues can be grouped including training and education, leadership, health and safety, working conditions, human rights, Stakeholder engagement and corporate governance etc.

Introduction

Banks play very important role in the economy of a nation. The health of the economy is closely related to the soundness of its banking system. Specially, in Bangladesh appropriate banking system is very important and essential to play a vital role, because our capital market system is not advanced like many other countries capital market.

Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) is seen as a concept in which companies voluntarily integrate social and environmental concerns into their business operations and into the interaction with their stakeholders. Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) is a concept that encompasses a company’s interaction with all stakeholders, including: banks, bondholders, business partners, communities where the company operates, employees, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) active in the communities where the company operates and shareholders.

The objective of the study is to know about the Corporate Social Responsibilities of First Security Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited. Both primary and secondary data has been used in this study.

FSIBL mainly focuses their CSR activities on educational sector, health sector, scholarship program, relief and rehabilitation program etc.170 poor but meritorious students studying in country’s 32 educational Institutions were selected for FSIBL stipends who would continue to receive an amount of Tk.1500 per month starting from October 2007 on an ongoing basis. FSIBL has also donated Tk. 50, 00,000/- for construction of permanent Liberation War Museum.

But the common people are not so aware about the CSR activities about FSIBL because the bank has no separate foundation to conduct these activities. In today’s competitive business arena CSR is being seen as one of the most important tools to increase positive brand image. FSIBL has been contributing for the welfare of the society for last 13 years. But these works are being done scatteredly. Moreover FSIBL does not operate any foundation like other popular banks of Bangladesh. The bank should bring all these welfare activities to the society under one umbrella by forming a structure which would be helpful for them to enhance the brand image to its current and potential customers.

Objective of the study

The objective of the study is to: Know about the CSR activities of First Security Islami Bank Ltd in Bangladesh.

Methodology of the study

Type of the study:

The is a descriptive study.

Sources of data

Primary and secondary data have been used to conduct this study.

Primary Sources

Interview with the key officials using an open ended questionnaire.
Discussion with the mid level officials.
3 months practical experience of working in FSIBL (Mirpur Branch) as an intern.

Secondary sources

Secondary data collected from,

FSIBL annual report (2010-2011).
FSIBL published CSR documents (2011).
www.fsiblbd.com

Historical Background of FSIBL

First Security Islami Bank Limited (FSIBL) was incorporated in Bangladesh on 29 August 1999 as a banking company under Companies Act 1994 to carry on banking business. It obtained permission from Bangladesh Bank on 22 September 1999 to commence its business. The Bank carries banking activities through its Fifty two (66) branches in the country. The commercial banking activities of the bank encompass a wide range of services including accepting deposits, making loans, discounting bills, conducting money transfer and foreign exchange transactions, and performing other related services such as safe keeping, collections and issuing guarantees, acceptances and letter of credit.

Vision of the Bank

To be the unique modern Islami bank in Bangladesh and to make significant contribution to the national economy and enhance customer’s trust and wealth, quality investment, employee’s value and rapid growth in shareholder’s equity.

Mission of the Bank

The bank has chalked out the following corporate objectives in order to ensure smooth achievement of its goals:

To be the most caring and customer friendly and service oriented bank.
To create a technology based most efficient banking environment for its customers.
To ensure ethics and transparency in all levels.
To ensure sustainable growth and establish full value of the honorable shareholders and
Above all, to add effective contribution to the national economy.

Objectives of the Bank

The objectives of the FSIBL are given below:

To provide efficient computerized banking system.
To enhance foreign exchange operations.
To accept deposits on profit-loss sharing basis.
To establish a welfare-oriented banking system.
To play a vital role in human development and employment generation.
To contribute towards balanced growth and development of the country through investment operations particularly in the less developed areas.
To establish participatory banking instead of banking on debtor-creditor relationship.

Salient Features of FSIBL Bank

The Bank is committed to run all its activities as per Islamic Shariah. FSIBL Bank through its steady progress and continuous success has earned the reputation of being one of the leading Private Sector Banks of the country. The distinguishing features of bank are as follows:

All activities are conducted on interest-free banking system in accordance with Islamic Shariah.
Investment is made through different modes permitted under Islamic Shariah.
Establishment of participatory banking instead of banking on debtor-creditor relationship.
Income of the Bank is shared with the Mudaraba depositors according to a ratio to ensure a reasonable fair rate of return on their depositors.
Aims are to introduce a welfare-oriented banking system and also to establish equity and justice in the field of all economic activities.
It extends Socio-economic and financial services to the poor, helpless and low-income group of the people for their economic enlistment particularly in the rural areas.
It plays a vital role in human resource development and employment generation particularly for the unemployment youths.
Its aim is to achieve balanced growth and equitable development of the country through diversified investment operations particularly in the priority sectors and in the less developed areas.
It extends co-operation to the poor, the helpless and the low-income group for their economic development.

Products and Services of FSIBL:

Investment Schemes

Investment / Deployment of Funds:

Bai-Murabaha (Deferred Lump Sum/ Installment Sale)
Bai-Muajjal (Deferred Installment / Lump Sum Sale)
Ijara (Leasing)
Musharaka (Joint-Venture Profit-Sharing)
Mudaraba (Trustee Profit-Sharing)
Bai-Salam (Advance Sale and Purchase)
Hire-Purchase
Direct Investments
Post Import Investment
Purchase and Negotiation of Export Bills
Inland Bills Purchased
Murabaha Import Bills
Bai-Muajjal Import Bills
Pre Shipment Investment
Quard-ul-Hasan (Benevolent Investment)

Letter of Guaran

Tender Guarantee
Performance Guarantee
Guarantee for Sub-Contracts
Shipping guarantee
Advance Payment guarantee
Guarantee in lieu of Security Deposits
Guarantee for exemption of Customs Duties
Others

Letter of Credit (L/C) / Back to Back Letter of Credit (L/C)

Specialized Schemes

Consumer Investment Scheme,
SME Investment Scheme,
Lease Investment Scheme,
Hire Purchase,
Earnest Money Investment Scheme,
Mortgage Investment,
Employees House Building Scheme,
ATM, VISA Investment Card, EEF, etc.

Deposit Schemes

Al-Wadiah Current Deposit.
Mudarabah Savings Deposit.
Mudarabah Short Term Deposit
Mudarabah Term Deposit

Online Banking

FSIB have set up Wide Area Network through Radio, Fibre-Optics & other available communication media systems to provide any branch banking to our customers. Customer of one branch is now able to deposit and withdraw money at any of our branches. All Branches are included in our Wide Area Network. No TT/DD or cash carrying will be necessary.

Mobile Banking

Mobile Banking Agent List
Mobile Banking Service
Mobile Banking TV Adds
Mobile Banking Paper Adds

SMS Banking

First Security Islami Bank Ltd. has officially launched SMS banking service from December 17, 2007

ATM

First Security Islami Bank Ltd. has implemented successfully Automated Teller Machine (ATM) /DBDIT card transaction from June 25, 2008. Through Automated Teller Machine (ATM) /Debit card, customer can avail the facilities like withdrawal money, balance inquiry and purchase goods from Point of sale (POS) using Dutch Bangla Bank Ltd. ATM Booth and POS.

Corporate Culture

This bank is one of the most disciplined Banks with a distinctive corporate. Here we believe in shared meaning, shared understanding and shared sense making. Bank’s people can see and understand events, activities, objects and situation in a distinctive way. They mould their manners and etiquette, character individually to suit the purpose of the bank and needs of the customers who are of paramount importance to the bank. The people in the Bank see themselves as a tight knit them that believe in working together for growth. The corporate culture of bank belong has not been imposed; it has rather been achieved through banks corporate conduct.

Human Resources Development

FSIB has a separate Human Resources Division (HRD) to manage the employee policies and practices. As on FYE 2007, Total 421 executives & officers of the bank have been working for smooth banking operations. Bank follows a standardized human resources policy. HRD of the Bank follow a transparent and free & fair system to ensure the standard recruitment, training & development of human resources of the bank. The bank has defined HR policies including recruitment, training & development, promotion, leave, transfer and disciplinary action policy. Usually internal recruitment procedures are considered to fill up the mid and top management positions, while entry-level positions are filled with regularly through competitive recruitment exams. They follow transparent, well-defined and strict rules for appointment of officers and staff in the Bank’s service.

Corporate Governance

Corporate governance is about how corporation is running its operations to achieve its corporate objectives. Bangladesh Bank (BB) gives emphasis on implementing corporate governance among the financial institutions and to do that, BB emphasis implementation of the guidelines issued by them for improving corporate governance in banking. Good Corporate Governance practices enhance an entity’s corporate image and market credibility, which attract capital and increase its borrowing power. These can be reflected in the quality of financial reporting and disclosures; strength of internal control system and internal audit function induction of professionally competent, independent non-executive Directors on corporate Board; formation of Audit Committee; delegation of authority to executives and staff; protection of corporate governance for strengthening organizational strength. With a view to ensure effective participation and deep interest in the affairs of the company and as per Articles of Association of the Company and as per Bangladesh Bank Circular No. 16 dated March 24, 2003 the bank has set up the following 2 committee:

Executive committee
Audit Committee

Executive Committee

FSIB has constituted 09 members executive committee of the board as per Bangladesh Bank guidelines to ensure corporate governance in the business of which managing director of the Bank is Ex-officio Member. The executive committee of the board are responsible for developing policy and strategy for smooth operations of business and business development of the bank to ensure maximization of shareholders wealth protecting other stakeholders interest in the company Mr. Alhaj Md. SaifulAlam, Chairman of the board of Directors is the Chairman of the present Executive Committee of the bank. He is very dynamic person and leading the executive committee of the bank in a very manner.

Audit Committee

FSIB has formulated an audit committee can play an effective role in formulating an efficient and secured banking system. The Audit Committee has been formed comprising three members of the Board of Directors. As per corporate governance guidelines the Chairman of the Audit Committee should have sound knowledge and expertise in finance & accounting or auditing. Mr. HamidulHaq, who is also a Director of the Bank, is Convener of the committee. He is associated in banking field over long years.

SWOT Analysis of FSIBL

SWOT analysis means strength, weakness, opportunity and threat analysis of company. Here SWOT analysis of FSIBL bank are given below-

Strength

First strength is that it is a sharia based bank.
By this time it has established an integral, customer friendly relationship with its clients,
It has prominent saving scheme named DPS for a fixed or lower income group of people of this society.
It provides services even after the banking hour to special clients.
Sound profitability growth and high asset quality.
Experienced management.
Honest, sincere and dedicated employee competency.
Wide market share and stable source of fund.
High attention on recovery of overdue amount and or pre-overdue situation. Close monitoring on investment.
High attention on individual performance.
High attention on making quality investment and disposal of proposals.
All the officials are dedicated and honest to serve its own duty.
As a whole the human resource is the main capital of the division.
Business ethics of the division is similar to the ethics and values of mass people of our country.

Weakness

Traditional network system and lack of full scale automation.
Lack of required ideas in modern investment products.
Poor marketing of investment products.
Lack of required information specifically on SME.
No growth on carrier advancement. So the employee wants to switch elsewhere.
Lack of experienced, competent as well as proficient manpower in almost every department.
FSIBL Bank Ltd. does not have an individual marketing department.
They have limited advertising strategy on behalf on their bank and accompanied by conservatism rule in this sector.
FSIBL Bank Ltd. does not use the share mode of investment.
They have no such program to finance to the new entrepreneur or creating the same.

Opportunity

Scope of market penetration through diversified investment products.

Increasing awareness of Islamic banking among the clients.
Scope develops new committed entrepreneurs.
Country wide branches having wide opportunities to access in different kinds of business.
Service charges in other banks are comparatively higher than FSIBL Bank Ltd.
No other banks could provide as much integral working atmosphere as FSIBL Bank Ltd.
Bank introduce Islamic card, which is a first time in Bangladesh.

Threats/ Challenges

Because of the intense competition, most of the competitor banks of FSIBL Bank Ltd. are coming up with new service line ATM.
The competitor banks of FSIBL Bank Ltd. have more geographical coverage than FSIBL Bank Ltd.
State law defers with the Islamic Shariah.
In the money market of Bangladesh there is no call money system of Islamic Shariah.
Some other conventional banks have opened their Islamic banking branch.

Literature Review

Corporate Social Responsibility

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development in its publication Making Good Business Sense by Lord Holme and Richard Watts used the following definition.

Corporate Social Responsibility is the continuing commitment by business to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of the workforce and their families as well as of the local community and society at large.

The same report gave some evidence of the different perceptions of what this should mean from a number of different societies across the world. Definitions as different as CSR is about capacity building for sustainable livelihoods.It respects cultural differences and finds the business opportunities in building the skills of employees, the community and the government from Ghana, through to CSR is about business giving back to society from the Philippines.

Traditionally in the United States, CSR has been defined much more in terms of a philanthropic model. Companies make profits, unhindered except by fulfilling their duty to pay taxes. Then they donate a certain share of the profits to charitable causes. It is seen as tainting the act for the company to receive any benefit from the giving.

The European model is much more focused on operating the core business in a socially responsible way, complemented by investment in communities for solid business case reasons. Personally, I believe this model is more sustainable because:

Social responsibility becomes an integral part of the wealth creation process – which if managed properly should enhance the competitiveness of business and maximize the value of wealth creation to society.
When times get hard, there is the incentive to practice CSR more and better – if it is a philanthropic exercise which is peripheral to the main business, it will always be the first thing to go when push comes to shove.

But as with any process based on the collective activities of communities of human beings (as companies are) there is no ‘one size fits all’. In different countries, there will be different priorities, and values that will shape how business act. And even the observations above are changing over time. The US has growing numbers of people looking towards core business issues.

For instance, the CSR definition used by Business for Social Responsibility is:

Operating a business in a manner that meets or exceeds the ethical, legal, commercial and public expectations that society has of business.

On the other hand, the European Commission hedges its bets with two definitions wrapped into one:

A concept whereby companies decide voluntarily to contribute to a better society and a cleaner environment. A concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basis.

When you review each of these, they broadly agree that the definition now focuses on the impact of how you manage your core business. Some go further than others in prescribing how far companies go beyond managing their own impact into the terrain of acting specifically outside of that focus to make a contribution to the achievement of broader societal goals. It is a key difference, when many business leaders feel that their companies are ill equipped to pursue broader societal goals, and activists argue that companies have no democratic legitimacy to take such roles. That particular debate will continue.

In general CSR or business responsibilities can be described as an approach by which a company:

Recognizes that its activities have a wider impact on the society in which it operates and that developments in society in turn impact on its ability to pursue its business successfully.
Actively manages the economic, social, environmental and human rights impact of its activities across the world, basing these on principles which reflect international values, reaping benefits both for its own operations and reputation as well as for the communities in which it operates.
Seeks to achieve these benefits by working closely with other groups and organizations – local communities, civil society, other businesses and home and host governments.

Philip kotler and Nancy lee in their book, Corporate social responsibility define corporate social responsibility as “a commitment to improve community well-being through discretionary business practices and contributions of corporate resources”. Some of the benefits of being socially responsible include (a) enhanced company and brand image (b) easier to attract and retain employees (c) increased market share (d) lower operating costs and (e) easier to attract investors. A socially – responsible firm will care about customers, employees, suppliers, the local community, society, and the environment. CSR can be described as an approach by which a company (a) recognizes that its activities have a wide impact on the society and that development in society in turn supports the company to pursue its business successfully and (b) actively manages the economic, social, and environmental and human rights. This approach is derived from the principles of sustainable development and good corporate governance. Marketing managers within different firms will see some social issues as more relevant than others. The relevance of a given social issue is determined by the company’s products, promotional efforts, and pricing and distribution policies but also by its philosophy of social responsibility.

Mathews (1993) states that:

“The social contract would exist between corporations (usually limited companies) and individual members of the society. Society (as a collection of individuals) provides corporations with their legal standing and attributes and the authority to own and use natural resources and t hire employees. Organizations draw on community resources and output both goods and services and waste products to the general environment. The organization has no inherent rights to these benefits and in order to allow their existence, society would expect the benefits to exceed the costs to society.

In recent years, the impact of business on the society has become a crucial issue. Business corporations are considered accountable to society for their actions. Now it is said that businesses are accountable not only to the shareholders but also to a wide range of stakeholders – including business partners, employees, customers, suppliers and the overall community. This kind of social view gave birth to the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility.

Business cannot work independently. Like an individual, it also has to live in an environment surrounded by socio-cultural, economic, technological, competitive, legal and political forces. In order to survive, it has to adjust itself within these forces. As a result, just like any other social units, it has to live like a member of a community or a citizen of a country. It has to abide by several rules and ethical considerations so that it does not do anything that is harmful for the society. As a body that deals with the society and utilizes the people or other resources of the society, it has some duties and responsibilities to the society also. In order to perform their task in the society, businesses must act as the ‘socially responsible citizens’.

Five beneficial reasons why company should embark on their CSR journey ⁽ⁱⁱ⁾

Enhanced brand image and reputation

A good reputation is vital for a successful company, with the rapid growth of social networking it is becoming more and more relevant and vital for SME’s as well as corporate to have a strong positive brand image. Companies gain referrals and testimonials to increase trust and reputation for prospective clients to view, this same theory can be applied to positive CSR.

Increased sales and customer loyalty

More and more consumers and suppliers are focusing their purchases towards socially and environmentally responsible products/services.

In European studies results have shown that 2 in 5 people would be willing to pay more for a product/service that have a positive CSR and conversely 3/6 people actively boycott or support products/services also on their public CSR.

Coupled together with a company’s USP’s these elements provide a powerful statement to be utilized.

Increased productivity

Employees are vital to a company’s success and it has become more and more apparent that by investing in your work staff and valuing their input, strongly increases productivity.

Peoples awareness of social issues are greatly increasing with easier access to information becoming readily available and on a personal level there has recently been a massive increase in the number of volunteers received within local communities.

This therefore implies that employees on a personal note are taking action more and will naturally expect the same attitude and sense of responsibility to be applied within their working environment also.

Attraction and retention of Employees

A company’s dedication to CSR can really be a drawing point for potential employees at all levels. Graduates are aware of the current climate and therefore leaving university in search of career prospects within a company that have longevity and security; no longer are people solely driven by salaries.

The same can be applied to the senior individuals where slight salary increases matter even less, employees look for values and respect not only in them but within the organization itself and CSR can provide the perfect tool to display this effectively.

Keeping up’ with competitors

This is where business is heading regardless of the company and regional culture, no matter how small your input CSR can only provide your company with positivity.

A companies reasons for beginning their CSR will all be differing however more often are local authorities, employees , investors and suppliers beginning to place pressure on the decision maker to “do the right thing” this is for your CSR but also and inevitably for your business.

Relationship between CSR and Brand

Exposure to any type of well-conceived promotional initiative for a brand leads to more positive feelings and judgments about the brand in a consumers mind. A promotional initiate emphasizing a brands affiliation with a social cause has a high degree of affinity. How much a given initiative will help or hurt a given brand will depend on the characteristics of its target markets. A high degree of affinity can enhance the effectiveness of a promotional initiative that increases the likelihood of consumers treating the initiative as an important and positively weighted attribute of the brand. However, when a promotional initiative does not mention an affiliation, consumers may weight a brands style of marketing as a negative attribute. Consumers would weigh the style of marketing as positive with those types of affiliations that have affiliation with a cause like cancer research, environmental protection or disaster relief. Moreover, a social-cause affiliation could also have a “halo effect” on how a brand is seen on other attributes, such as trustworthiness or quality.

Those initiatives in which the logic behind the brands affiliation can be easily recognized by most consumers – typically produce a more positive effect on consumer brand judgments and feelings than initiatives with weaker fit. When a brand promotes a high-fit social-cause, it may be more likely to be viewed by some consumers as opportunistic and seeking commercial gain.

Whether to pursue affinity marketing in general or societal marketing in particular, the companies should recognize that every brand is different. While, for example, a low-fit societal marketing initiative might work best for one brand, it might do less for another brands image. It is recommended to do careful experimental research to refine and test ideas for affinity marketing initiatives against one another and against other kinds of marketing initiatives.

Companies that have made Corporate Social Responsibility a central part of their businesses are reaping the benefits as improved brand image. It works best for those companies in which responsibility is a core company value and informs all aspects of the business.

Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives are not only about philanthropy but translating these ideas into practical business strategies. Corporate Social Responsibility driven efforts does not only relate to donating money but it talks about integrating social and ethical practices into business strategies that help the consumer in creating a positive brand image. With the increase in Corporate Social Responsibility awareness some companies promote a very elementary understanding of corporate governance and ethical standards.

Another important aspect of Corporate Social Responsibility is that it channelizes funds of socially responsible investors in promoting Corporate Social Responsibility among investors.

The content of Corporate Social Responsibility creates an emotional connection with consumers and builds connections between the brand, its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and the viewers. Promoting brand image with the help of Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives encourages positive comments and ultimately has a positive effect on the brand, because the company is being transparent about its external communications and internal practices which show alignment. The benefits of using Corporate Social Responsibility in branded content are endless; foremost it helps to build a brands reputation and is a point of differentiation.

CSR of First Security Islami Bank Ltd.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of FSIBL

Since the inception as a responsible corporate body FSIBL. has undertaken various initiatives considering the interest of customers, employees, shareholders, communities and environment. These initiatives go beyond the statutory obligation/mandatory compliances to voluntary activities that promote sustainable development. FSIBL vision which focuses on double bottom line that it should make decisions based not only on profit but also based on social and environmental consequences is closely linked to the principles of CSR. Corporate Social responsibility (CSR) is a fundamental part of the way FSIBL does business. It’s an opportunity to build better relationships with all stakeholders by paying closer attention to how fulfill social, economic, environmental and ethical responsibilities. CSR allows aligning operations with standards and expectations that are increasingly important to shareholders, employees, customers and communities where operate. While most of environmental impact is indirect, resulting from financing and investment activities, it also has a direct impact on the environment through our day-to-day business operations. The working towards reducing waste and the more efficient use of resources.

FSIBL conducts various kinds of corporate social responsibilities

First Security Islami Bank Ltd keeps on discharging its CSR activities as a part of social entity for the greater interest of the entire society. The bank has always extended its support to the development of the community through promotion of sports, culture, health & educational programs, disaster relief etc

Education

The underprivileged but meritorious students are being provided with financial support in the form of monthly stipends for the persuasion of their graduation/post-graduation level studies in the country’s public sector universities and medical/agriculture colleges. In 2007, a total of 170 poor but meritorious students studying in country’s 32 educational institutions were selected for PBF stipends who would continue to receive an amount of Tk. 1500 per month starting from October 2007 on an ongoing basis.

In 2008, a total of 120 poor but meritorious students were selected for PBF stipends. Because of increased cost of living, the amount of monthly stipend has been increased to Tk.1800. In 2009, number of awardees increased to 198.
Donation to purchase educational materials for less privilege students for 10 schools at Tangail district.
Donation to Sonatola Pilot High School, Barnamala Adarsha School, DU Management etc.
Scholarship/lump grant for poor and Meritorious Students
Financial support to Educational Institutions

Scholarship program

Recently First Security Islami Bank has provided scholarship to the poor and autistics. The governor of Bangladesh Bank Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed was the chief guest of this program. The Bank wants to continue this scholarship every year so that this poor students can continue their study. This is a stipend package for poor and meritorious students that takes care of the beneficiaries throughout their student life.fsibl Scholarship Programme, launched in 2006 with 61 poor and meritorious students selected from different reputed educational institutions of Dhaka City including Govt. Laboratory High School, Viqarunnissa Noon School and College, Dhaka University, BUET, Dhaka Medical College, etc. enrolled as many as 1000 students from around 150 reputed educational institutions across the country by 31 December 2008. They are enrolled in the this programme to be taken care of for their whole educational life subject to their fulfillment of the eligibility criteria that include satisfactory academic results, non-involvement in student politics, financial insolvency etc. So far Tk. 19,30000/- has been disbursed as scholarship under this program.

Computer for School

FSIBL has provided some computer in different school and colleges. At first they start this program at Potya Model public school and college.

15th All Asians Inter Varsity Debate Championship

FSIBL Limited was the event sponsor for the Youth Development Night of 15th All Asian Inter Varsity Debate Championship organized by North South University (NSU). This is a praiseworthy initiative by a Bangladeshi institution to organize such a mammoth event where more than 600 young debaters from all across Asia participated

Daily Star O & A level award giving ceremony 2011

To salute and encourage the nation builders of tomorrow, FSIBL supported the 9th award presentation ceremony organized by The Daily Star for the students who earned more than 7 A’s in O-level & 3 A’s in A-level. They are the future leaders who will lead the way from the forefront.

Research and Publication

Amor Ekushey Grontho Mela 2011 was supported by FSIBL. This support would facilitate Bangla Academy to continue its ongoing publications & Research & Development activities.

Relief and Rehabilitation Program

Another vital area they are dealing with as a part of their CSR activities is helping people to survive natural calamities. Under this welfare programme, FSIBL provides relief in cash for flood, fire or cyclone victims and cold-stricken people. The aim of these CSR activities is to help the target group to overcome their provisional sufferings and contribute to the socio-economic growth as soon as possible.

Participation in relief and rehabilitation activities in natural disasters and in emergency forms an important program of First Security Islami Bank Foundation. During calamities like flood, tornado, tidal surge etc. The Foundation mobility its own people as well as donates to the relief fund opened at the government level. The Foundation also tries its best to extend hands of assistance and co-operation to the Muslim brethren elsewhere in the world.

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility Program, First Security Islami Bank Limited donated Tk. 30,00,000/- to the Prime Minister’s Relief & Welfare Fund as donation for Nimtoli and Begunbari tragedy victims. Mr. Md. Abdul Maleque, Vice Chairman, First Security Islami Bank Limited is handing over the payment order to Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a simple ceremony. It may be noted that FSIBL always extended their assistance for the distressed community in various natural calamity.

Assistance for Cyclone Aila and Cidr Victim

To mitigate the sufferings of Aila victims, First Security Islami Bank Limited has donated Tk. 10,00,000/- only to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund. Mr. AAM Zakaria, Managing Director, First Security Islami Bank Limited handed over a cheque amounting Tk. 10,00,000/- to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

To mitigate the sufferings of Cyclone Sidr victims, First Security Islami Bank Limited has donated Tk. 15,00,000/- only to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.

Sponsored Women Entrepreneur Association of Bangladesh (WEAB) FSIBL supported WEAB to initiate a relief program under which they helped building house for acid victims especially in cyclone SIDR hit areas namely Cox’s Bazar and Barisal. A cultural event was organized to raise fund for the charity.

Health

National Vitamin A plus Campaign

FSIBL has sponsored 1000 pieces of t-shirts for the volunteers of country wide Vitamin-A campaign. Each year government’s health ministry organizes this campaign where children of 0 to 5 years are given a drop of vitamin A, to prevent them from fatal diseases. To create more awareness against such diseases FSIBL lent its support in the campaign. And also-

Under Dristy Daan Project, 1,258 poor/ultra poor cataract patients were identified and operated. In addition, 779 persons with refractive error were prescribed spectacles after relevant examinations done at eye camp and 207 patients were given spectacles free of cost.
Through ‘Keep the Heart Beating Project’ the total costs of the cardiac surgeries of 12 children with congenital/acquired heart diseases are contributed.
Contributed for the construction of the hospital building of Rangpur Diabetic Association and a Passenger cum Bed lift for Sylhet Diabetic Association Hospital.
Sponsored “The World Blood donor’s day” organized by Sandhani, a voluntary institution of medical and dental students.
Donation to Riverboat Hospital project.
Donation to ORBIS.
Donation to ‘Chattagram Maa O Shishu Hospital’.
Donation to SIED Trust for providing physiotherapy support to underprivileged children.
Sponsored Immunization Campaign.

Donation made to save a child’s life

FSIBL donated BDT 10,000 to help ongoing treatment of a child name ‘Dorpon’, who have electrocuted himself and burned half of his body, while came in contact with a torn electric wire while playing.

ICDDR, B Inauguration of FSIBL Short Stay Ward

FSIBL and ICDDR, B representatives inaugurated FSIBL Short Stay Ward at Dhaka Hospital of ICDDR,B. Its Dhaka and Matlab hospitals provide free treatment to 1120,000 patients each year with a commitment to not to turn away anyone arriving for treatment. In the past, accommodating these patients required the use of tents as temporary wards. With the support of FSIBL Limited the short stay ward has been renovated with full air conditioning, new washrooms, hand washing sinks, surrounding walls and upgraded floors and ceilings. This will facilitate ICDDR, B to treat underprivileged patients with better care.

Social Welfare

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility, First Security Islami Bank Limited has donated an ambulance to Baitus Sharaf Shah Jabberia Hospital. Mr. Zahangir Gafur, Zonal Head of FSIBL hand over the ambulance to Mawlana Sheikh Md. Kutubuddin.

FSIBL has donated 5 lack taka for opening new orphanage for the orphan madrasha. They have also donated for seed trust and 2,40,000 taka for Anjuman mofidul islam.

First Security Islami Bank Limited with the assistance of Bankers Forum organized an eye camp for the orphans of Dhaka City. In this connection a simple ceremony was organized at the Bank’s Head Office few days. Mr. A.A.M. Zakaria, Managing Director was present on the occasion.

Donation to Election Commission for preparing Voter & National ID.
Sponsored New Voter Campaign.
Donation to TRY Foundation.
Arrangement of job fair.
Donation to Monga affected people.
Sponsored Tree plantation program for maintaining ecological balance

Liberation war museum

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility Program, First Security Islami Bank Limited donated Tk. 50,00,000/- for construction of permanent Liberation War Museum. Photograph shows Alhaj Md. Saiful Alam, Chairman, First Security Islami Bank Limited is handing over the payment order to Honorable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a simple ceremony. It may be noted that FSIBL always extended their assistance for the promotion of heritage, culture, education and welfare of distressed community in various natural calamity.

FSIBL Partnering with Dhaka Metropolitan Police

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) commenced community police service in different parts of the city, with a view to involve the community in the criminal administration and traffic control system. In this regard FSIBL has supported Dhaka Metropolitan Police as part of its ongoing CSR activities. FSIBL has provided the DMP with road divider, traffic cones, police vests and umbrellas to assist them in serving our society for the betterment.

Bird Fair in Jahangirnagar University

FSIBL as part of its CSR activity sponsored FSIBL Pakhi Mela 2010 organized by Jahangirnagar University. This was done to raise awareness about conservation of immigrant birds and thus to protect them from being endangered.

Humanitarian help programs

These hese programmed aims at providing help to distressed people who are unable to meet their basic needs like food, clothing, shelter and medicine. The old widow and children without guardians get preference. Besides, the programmed extends assistance to orphanages, provide fund for the marriage of poor girls, assist indebted people, help distressed wayfarers etc.

Assistance for family members of the martyred Army Officers killed in BDR carnage

As a part of Corporate Social Responsibility, First Security Islami Bank Limited has donated Tk. 25,00,000/- only to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund as financial assistance to the bereaved family members of the martyred Army Officers killed in BDR carnage. Alhaj Mohammad Saiful Alam, Chairman, First Security Islami Bank Limited handed over a cheque amounting Tk. 25,00,000/- to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on June 10, 2009.

First Security Islami Bank Limited has also donated Tk. 4,80,000/- only to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund as financial assistance to the bereaved family members of the martyred Army Officers killed in BDR carnage. Mr. A.A.M. Zakaria, Managing Director, First Security Islami Bank Limited handed over a cheque amounting Tk. 4, 80,000/- to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

FSIBL pays tribute to Artist Safiuddin Ahmed

FSIBL pays tribute to the eminent Artist Safiuddin Ahmed by celebrating his 86th birth anniversary with his 1st solo art exhibition in Bangladesh with Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts. As part of FSIBL’s ongoing CSR activity, it has sponsored the solo exhibition styled ‘THE LIMITLESS LUMINOSITY OF LINES’. The exhibition was held from June 23, 2008 till July 13, 2008.

Sponsors

FSIBL Sponsors Bangladesh Travel & Tourism Mart

FSIBL Limited was the title sponsor for the Bangladesh Travel & Tourism Fair, which was held for 3 days in Bashundhara City Centre, Dhaka. FSIBL displayed its travel related services, such as money endorsement, tour plan, airline booking, travel loan, etc at the fair.

FSIBL Sponsors National Career Fair

FSIBL sponsored the 5th Annual National Career Fair organized by North South University. This initiative for arranging the Career Fair was an effective means to open the window of opportunity for bright and eager young students and graduates with employers for job searching & networking. FSIBL contributed to this endeavor for a better way to the development of our nation

FSIBL sponsors Jatio Haowr Utshab at Mohonganj, Netrokona

FSIBL as part of their CSR activity supported a 3-day long “Jatio Haowr Utshab” in Mohangonj, Netrokona. Despite of having any distribution network in that locality, FSIBL joined with Poribesh Bachao Andolon (POBA) to save the environment. The drive was to create awareness to save the surrounding environment of Haowr areas and to protect its rich biodiversity.

FSIBL supported Bangladesh Hockey Federation

FSIBL has sponsored ‘FSIBL Club Cup Hockey Tournament’ with Bangladesh Hockey Federation. The tournament was sponsored to motivate and provide financial support for the promising of hockey players Bangladesh.

Junior Tennis Initiative sponsored by FSIBL

FSIBL has supported Bangladesh Tennis Federation to initiate Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI) Program. Under this program young school children would be provided with necessary training on tennis. This initiative is taken to create internationally acclaimed tennis stars from Bangladesh. This is to create enthusiasm among the young school children about games and sports. It’s also sponsored by

Donation to Bhatiary Golf & country club, Chittagong for construction of Halfway house.
Games & Sports sponsorship (National Leg & Athletic Federation).

CSR and branding of FSIBL

CSR is a major component of brand value.The content of Corporate Social Responsibility of FSIBL creates an emotional connection with consumers and builds connections between the brand, its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and the viewers. Developing brand image with the help of Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives encourages positive comments and ultimately has a positive effect on the brand, because the bank is being transparent about its external communications and internal practices which show alignment. The benefits of using Corporate Social Responsibility in branded content are endless; foremost it helps to build a brand reputation and is a point of differentiation. FSIBL have made Corporate Social Responsibility a central part of their businesses are reaping the benefits as improved brand image. It works best for those companies in which responsibility is a core company value and informs all aspects of the business. With the increase in Corporate Social Responsibility awareness FSIBL promote a very elementary understanding of corporate governance and ethical standards. FSIBL has created a strong brand image through their CSR activities.

Summery of finding

First Security Islami Bank has been doing a lot of CSR activities in different sector such as Educational sector, health sector, sponsorship program etc, successfully for the last 13 years.

In 2007, a total of 170 poor but meritorious students studying in country’s 32 educational

Institutions were selected for FSIBL stipends who would continue to receive an amount of Tk.1500 per month starting from October 2007 on an ongoing basis.

FSIBL donates Tk. 50,00,000/- for liberation war museum. First Security Islami Bank Limited has donated Tk. 25,00,000/- only to Prime Minister’s Relief Fund as financial assistance to the bereaved family members of the martyred Army Officers killed in BDR carnage. The bank also arranges National vitamin A plus campaign. FSIBL donated BDT 10,000 to help ongoing treatment of a child name ‘Dorpon’, who have electrocuted himself and burned half of his body, while came in contact with a torn electric wire while playing.

But most of activities have been done scatteredly.

The bank has not a separate foundation to operate their CSR activities properly. FSIBL spends a little amount in scholarship program.

Furthermore they do not use CSR as effectively to enhance the brand image. Even the customers are not also aware about their social welfare issues.

Conclusions

CSR involves a commitment to contribute to the economic, environmental and social sustainability of communities through the on-going engagement of stakeholders, the active participation of communities impacted by company activities and the public reporting of company policies and performance in the economic, environmental and social arenas.

First Security Islami Bank Limited (FSIBL) was awarded the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award 2009 by Bankers’ Forum. The bank was awarded the CSR award in recognition of its active participation in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Program.

FSIBL operates CSR activities not only to social welfare but also to increase their brand image. To become the best service provider in the Banking sector FSIBL should more increase their CSR activities.

Recommendations

First security Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd should do the following things:

FSIBL should develop a separate foundation structure for conducting their CSR activities.
The bank should extend their sponsorship program.
Most importantly the bank should focus more on branding by using CSR activities.

Questionnaire on

Corporate Social Responsibilities of FSIBL,

Mirpur Branch

(Only for Internship Report purpose)

Name :

Age :

Gender :  Male  Female

Occupation:  Service  Business  Student  Others

Type of account:  Savings  Current  DPS  Loan & Advance FDR  others

Contact No.:

Open ended structured interview