The Star Golden Hearts Award 2019

Humanity – a word that represents the qualities we have as human beings, such as the ability to have love and compassion. Humanity also means the ability to forget our selfish interests at times when others need our help most – and for some, it means going far beyond their means to make society a better place to live in.

Everyday, we go out of our way to do some good for the people around us, be it our old parents, children or friends who are struggling.

And then, there are people who fight and struggle to save humanity in communities that need help the most. And it is these Good Samaritans we have taken into account for The Star Golden Hearts Award.

The Star Golden Hearts Award honours and celebrates unsung heroes who go the distance of helping communities in need – regardless of race, religion and background.

Each year, ten individuals or groups are chosen as award winners. Out of the ten, a Star Golden Heart Award winner is chosen to receive RM50,000 for their cause. Winners from 2016 to 2018 were Kedai Jalanan, Barefoot Mercy and UmieAktif.

This time next week, only one winner will receive the Star Golden Hearts Award 2019.

Last year, the Star Golden Hearts Award received about 200 nominations. This year, however, we’ve seen a spike in the number of submissions totaling up to over 400 nominations.

The numbers this year show that the Star Golden Hearts Award has captivated the attention of Malaysians across the country.

The initiative plays an essential role in society as it is a good reflection of society. “This is what The Star represents as we’re the people’s paper. It is in line with our passion and struggles,” Star Group Editor Esther Ng shares.

News reporters have done a swell job in reporting crime and violence amongst other turns of events in the media. Therefore, the Star Golden Hearts Award exist to make a memorable mark in the hearts of Malaysians and is proof that the good exists amongst us.

Star Golden Hearts Award 2019 also welcomed three new judges into the panel. Namely, Yayasan Kebajikan Negara’s Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Che Asmah Ibrahim, prominent social advocate Syed Azmi Alhabshi and Yayasan Gamuda’s Head Ts. Sharifah Alauyah.

All three new judges noted that it was hard not to feel inspired looking through all the submissions. And while selecting the top 10 was not easy, 400 over nominations showed the judges that there are many Malaysians who deserve to be recognised purely for their undying strength, passion and commitment in serving humanity.

“The Star Golden Hearts Award must continue as it is a reminder that there are unsung heroes amongst Malaysians. Their stories would stay in the dark if not for this platform,” Yayasan Perpaduan Malaysia Trustee and Chief Judge Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Lee Lam Thye expressed.