(From left) Henry, Ahirudin, Kenny, Prof Azman and Zakaria at the NPC-Macrokiosk Muhibbah Award ceremony in Kuala Lumpur. — ONG SOON HIN/The Star
Saidina Abu Bakar As-Siddiq Mosque (MSABA) has been awarded the National Press Club (NPC)-Macrokiosk Muhibbah Award for May for its programmes reaching out to people of all races and religions.
The mosque situated in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, was picked for its endeavours which included hosting joint iftar gatherings with non-Muslims and organising a lecture on quitting smoking. The talk, organised during Ramadan, was given by by non-Muslim speaker Dr Takdir Singh.
Chief MSABA imam Zakaria Yahya said that he was deeply honoured to receive the recognition and would continue to spread the muhibbah spirit among all Malaysians.
The mosque’s deputy chairman Prof Emeritus Dr Azman Awang said the award came as a surprise as he felt their work was a normal thing to do.
“The mosque is a centre of spirituality and education. It is open to all. Inviting others and giving back to the community is what we do,” he said at the award ceremony.
NPC president Datuk Ahirudin Attan said the award was to acknowledge efforts in fostering goodwill and friendship irrespective of race, religion and nationality.
“Through this award, we hope to rekindle the spirit of muhibbah.
“This goal is not only the responsibility of leaders but also that of everyone in Malaysia,” he said.
Also at the event were Macrokiosk CEO Datuk Kenny Goh and COO Datuk Henry Goh.
The NPC-Macrokiosk Muhibbah Award is a monthly award.
The winner receives RM2,000 and also vouchers from Tealive, Jaya Grocer and natural yoghurt brand llaollao.
The recipients are selected by a rotating panel comprising media editors and senior journalists.
The award’s criteria specify that anyone who walks the extra mile for any person, cause, organisation or even plants and animals, in the most altruistic sense, can be considered for nomination.
Winners can be from any nationality as long as they are dedicated to helping others without seeking personal gain.
