Foundations committed to making a difference

PETALING JAYA: Having been involved in the Star Golden Hearts Award project for four years, Yayasan Gamuda said the partnership has been vital in championing social causes in the country.

Its head Sharifah Alauyah Wan Othman, who is also a judge of the award, said the organisation aimed to be at the forefront of driving positive changes in society.

“Yayasan Gamuda is focused on pioneering positive changes. Individuals and social enterprises are more than a charitable cause because they are doing good for the longer term.

“When they are in for the lasting betterment of our society, transformative and sustained social impact is possible, ” she said at the award ceremony yesterday.

She said that Yayasan Gamuda had thrown its support for the award because this was one way to give back to society.

“For the past four years we have been together, it has been a win-win collaboration, ” she said.

Although the progress of the award initiative had been heartening, she said it was crucial to continue growing it.

“Even though the nation is heading towards industrialisation, there are still people who are in need. We have to help them in whatever way we can.

“This is one platform that Star Media Group, Yayasan Gamuda and Gamuda can collaborate and improve the quality of life of the public, ” she said.

She congratulated Star-Gamuda Inspiration Award winner Sujana Mohd Rejab.

“The provision of prosthetic limbs by Sujana enables many physically impaired individuals to benefit, having equal privileges and access to a quality of life with dignity.

“In return, they are able to contribute back to society in a virtuous cycle, ” she said.

Star Media Group Bhd chairman Datuk Fu Ah Kiow expressed thanks to Yayasan Gamuda for sharing a common goal in recognising ordinary Malaysians and helping them further their cause.

“We especially thank Yayasan Gamuda for being together with us supporting this cause, providing encouragement and financial sponsorship for the Star-Gamuda Inspiration Award winner, who is chosen from the top 10 winners, ” he said.

Fu said the annual award had evolved over the years into a unique cause involving two foundations – Yayasan Gamuda and Star Foundation.

He was also hopeful that such an initiative would spread the spirit of inclusiveness, moderation and unity.

“We hope Yayasan Gamuda will continue to be with us in this noble cause to help the needy and vulnerable society in the country, ” he said.

Moving forward, Fu noted that The Star would continue its effort in promoting moderation, kindness and unity through the award, including other initiatives mooted by the media group.

“Despite the reality that many corporations have slashed budgets in assisting non-governmental organisations, The Star will continue to do what we’ve been doing in the past, ” he said.