Innovation with Integrity: Advancing AI While Protecting Trust Across World Vision SAP
Article by Haidy Wijaya Sung, Finance and Corporate Services Director, World Vision South Asia and Pacific
In humanitarian work, every minute saved can translate into greater impact for children and communities. As World Vision South Asia and the Pacific (SAP) advances its digital transformation journey, we are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) not as a technology trend, but as a practical tool to improve efficiency, strengthen decision-making, and enhance stewardship.
At the same time, innovation brings responsibility. The personal data entrusted to us—from registered children and community members to sponsors and partners—must be protected with the highest level of care. For World Vision SAP, progress means leveraging AI while upholding integrity, accountability, and trust.
AI in Our Hands: Unlocking Efficiency for Greater Impact
On 21 April 2026, more than 250 finance and supply chain professionals from across the SAP region joined the virtual session “AI in Our Hands.” The event showcased how tools such as Claude, Microsoft Copilot, and ChatGPT can simplify complex tasks, accelerate analysis, and reduce administrative workload.
Participants explored practical applications ranging from account reconciliations and invoice processing to budget reporting and financial analysis. Tasks that once took hours can now be completed in minutes, allowing teams to focus on strategic decision-making and mission delivery.
The value of AI extends beyond productivity. By improving operational efficiency, we can maximise resources, strengthen programme delivery, and better serve vulnerable children and communities.
A Foundation of Trust: Navigating Data Protection
As we advance our digital capabilities, we recognise that the data entrusted to us—from registered children to sponsors and community members—must be protected with the highest level of care. Across the SAP region, organisations are navigating an evolving regulatory environment, with data protection laws ranging from established frameworks in the Philippines to newer legislation in India and Vanuatu.
To meet these challenges, World Vision SAP conducted a comprehensive Personal Data Protection (PDP) Mapping exercise. This cross-functional initiative, involving risk advisors, finance directors, and audit teams, assessed our operations across three tiers of regulatory maturity:
- Mature Frameworks: India, Indonesia, Philippines, and Sri Lanka
- Emerging Frameworks: Bangladesh, Nepal, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea
- Nascent Environments: Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste
Beyond compliance, the exercise established a stronger foundation for governance, risk management, and informed decision-making as our digital footprint continues to grow.
Bridging Innovation and Security
The intersection of AI and data protection remains a key strategic priority. As AI tools become increasingly integrated into our operations, we continue to work closely with the Global Centre and the Data Governance Director to address risks associated with cross-border data transfers and global platforms such as Workday and ProVision.
Our focus is not simply on compliance, but on building a culture of responsible innovation. Whether using AI to optimise budgets or mapping data flows to strengthen governance, our purpose remains the same: to leverage technology in ways that enhance impact while protecting the dignity and privacy of those we serve.
As we move forward, one principle continues to guide us: AI in our hands, children in our hearts.
Haidy Wijaya Sung serves as the Finance and Corporate Services Director for World Vision South Asia and the Pacific. With 22 years of experience serving in different capacities across the World Vision partnership, Haidy manages the region’s financial operations and corporate infrastructure. Grounded in operational excellence, strategic stewardship, and accountability, Haidy focuses on maximising resources to support resilient, impactful programming that puts children and communities at the centre.