Rao Family Foundation Launches Singapore’s First Legal Centre for Non-Visible Conditions

The Rao Family Foundation and Pro Bono SG have officially launched Singapore’s inaugural legal centre dedicated to serving individuals with non-visible conditions. The agreement, formalized on March 16, 2026, establishes the Inclusive Justice Law Centre, which aims to provide comprehensive legal support to a demographic that has often been overlooked in the legal system.

This new centre will function as a one-stop hub for legal awareness, guidance, and representation, specifically tailored to meet the needs of individuals with non-visible conditions and their caregivers. The Rao Family Foundation has pledged over $700,000 in funding over the next two years to cover manpower costs, establish a Legal Support Fund, and facilitate training through the Pro Bono SG Training Academy.

Commitment to Inclusivity and Justice

Mr. James Zou, Director at the Rao Family Foundation, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in achieving a just society. He stated, “To us, inclusivity means being intersectional, all-encompassing, and exhaustive.” He expressed confidence that the Inclusive Justice Law Centre would ensure equitable access to justice for all, regardless of whether their conditions are visible.

The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Law and the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Chua, who also co-chairs the Inclusive Justice Taskforce, underscored the significance of this initiative in fortifying Singapore’s legal and social support framework.

The MOU was signed by Mr. Jimmy Budiarto Rao, Chairman of the Rao Family Foundation, and Mr. Dinesh Dhillon, Chairman of Pro Bono SG, marking a pivotal moment in the effort to enhance legal protections for underserved populations.

Bridging Gaps in Legal Access

The launch of the Inclusive Justice Law Centre addresses critical barriers faced by individuals with non-visible conditions and their caregivers in accessing legal support. The centre will be staffed by a full-time Singapore-qualified community lawyer, who will provide expert advice and assistance. Additionally, this lawyer will play a crucial role in building a volunteer network by training individuals in specialized legal knowledge pertinent to this community.

The centre will also offer a range of workshops, seminars, and webinars focused on enhancing legal literacy and protection. These initiatives are designed to tackle unique challenges faced by those with non-visible conditions, such as decision-making, communication, and self-advocacy. Caregivers will also benefit from discussions around future planning and financial security.

Mr. Dhillon remarked on the broader implications of the initiative, stating, “Access to justice is not only about having legal rights—it is about being able to understand and navigate the system.” He expressed hope that the centre would not only assist individual cases but also contribute to a more responsive legal framework.

The collaboration between the Rao Family Foundation and Pro Bono SG represents a significant step forward in promoting equity and inclusivity within Singapore’s legal landscape. This initiative aims not only to provide immediate support but also to influence long-term systemic change within the legal and social services sectors.

In summary, the Inclusive Justice Law Centre stands as a vital resource for individuals with non-visible conditions in Singapore, ensuring they receive the legal support and representation necessary to uphold their rights and dignity.