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“The Trustees have undertaken to abide by the important principles of transparency, accountability, and informativeness which are essential to an institution which seeks to attain and sustain a relationship of trust and credibility with its constituency of members.”

Varindra Vittachi Letter Announcing the Establishment of the Foundation, New York, 1991.

The Foundations team of trustees strives to maintain the trust of its donors by working together harmoniously, free of self-interest.

In our endeavors, we attempt to put God’s guidance into practice. We monitor all the assets of the Foundation carefully and use them wisely.

Trustees serve a four-year term. Terms are staggered to maintain stability through continuity. Half of the trustees rotate off the board every two years, but are eligible for reappointment, if willing, through the same procedure as new candidates.

There is no compensation for being a trustee, however, trustees are reimbursed to attend the MSF annual meeting. Trustees must also sign a Conflict of Interest statement as well as a Non Disclosure Agreement.

Subud members may consult freely with any trustee about donations and bequests they are considering. Funds provided by members are used in accordance with the stated purpose of the donor.

The most important quality of a trustee is a deep understanding of the Latihan Kejiwaan. Trustees shall have an understanding of the Subud organisation, with proven experience working effectively, harmoniously and reliably within Subud. Outer skills and experience such as financial oversight, management of a foundation or non-profit organisation, communications, etc. are also valued, but not required.

The minimum qualifications required to perform the role of MSF Trustee are as follows:

  1. Active Subud member for at least 7 years.
  2. Understanding of the Organisation: Advisable that the applicant has knowledge of the Subud international organisational structure and governance, including MSF.
  3. Have committee or helper experience working effectively, harmoniously, and reliably within our Subud Association.
  4. Values: Honesty, integrity, ability to work with others from different backgrounds.
  5. Availability to dedicate a minimum of 10 hours a week to the MSF working board and one or more sub-committees. Candidate must also be able to travel once a year for at least 7 days (costs covered by MSF).
  6. Capacity to perform the role of trustee, such as:
  • A.  To facilitate or serve effectively in the work of at least one of the MSF subcommittees (Finance, Investment, Personnel, Grant, Endowment, Communication).
  • B. To communicate ideas and thoughts effectively and contribute meaningfully to discussion by email, zoom call and face-to-face meetings.
  • C. Have basic understanding of budgeting and financial statements.

7. Basic English language skills are ideal, but not necessary. Translation services for board of trustee online calls and in-person meetings are provided by MSF. Documentation is in English so trustees will be expected to use an online translation program to read emails.

8. Internet access is required, because most communication and meetings are held virtually. Basic Computer proficiency in Email, Zoom, Microsoft Word and Excel is desired. Internal training, at no cost, on IT tools can be provided if needed.

9. Never convicted of a crime and not in the Sanction List or Politically Exposed Persons list. This is a brokerage requirement since Trustees deal in the trading of shares.

10.No conflict of interest with MSF and WSA.

  • The most powerful weapon in life, with which to make your life safe and happy, is nothing other than doing the best you can towards your fellow beings.

    Bapak, from a Talk by Bapak recording 78 CDK 19 Copyright 2007 – 2011 the World Subud Association