PETALING JAYA: The challenges facing society have not stopped Malaysians from lending a helping hand with this year’s Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA) once again shining a light on grassroots changemakers.
Ranging from Social Welfare and Community Empowerment and Education to Disaster and Crisis Relief and Environment and Wildlife, SGHA chief judge Tan Sri Gooi Hoe Soon @ Wee Hoe Soon said the award has once again highlighted the caring nature of Malaysians.
“Personally, I am amazed at how passionate Malaysians are to continue showing care across the entire society.
“We are a diverse and extremely united society, especially when it comes to caring for others,” he said during the SGHA final judging session at Menara Star here yesterday.
A total of 180 nominations were received for this year’s award.
The nominees once again reflected Malaysia’s diversity with representation from Malay, Chinese and Indian communities, as well as Sabah and Sarawak.
The finalists comprised 13 from Peninsular Malaysia and seven across Sabah and Sarawak.
Also on the judging panel are Star Media Group chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng, MySDG Foundation chief executive officer Anita Ahmad, former Social Welfare Department deputy director B. Vijayakumari Pillai, National Entrepreneurship Institute social entrepreneurship manager Muhammad Hafizul Khair Mohd Yusuf, ESGright Sdn Bhd co-founder Prathab Vengadasalam and Pepper Labs Sdn Bhd managing director Thanaselan Rajendran.
Gooi said that this year’s judging session was also unique as it was the first time shortlisted nominees presented their work directly to the judges.
“This allowed us to better understand the work they are doing on the ground and the real differences they are making in communities,” he said.
Amidst challenging times, Gooi said the country is never short of those who continuously step forward to help.
“They cover various aspects, be it wildlife, education and more, all while being volunteers.
“Without these champions and changemakers, they and the non-governmental organisations they represent may be completely neglected. Hence, we have to commend these selfless people who have dedicated themselves towards uplifting others.”
Gooi added that SGHA continues to showcase everyday Malaysians coming out to help others without seeking any recognition.
“There are many unsung heroes out there and if not for being singled out by SGHA, we probably may not even know about them and their noble deeds,” Gooi said.
Introduced in 2015, SGHA has recognised more than 120 individuals and organisations for their commitment to improving the well-being of communities.
Ten winners – five individuals and five organisations – will be announced at the SGHA 2026 award ceremony on Dec 8.
Each will receive RM10,000, a trophy and a certificate in recognition and support of their work.
Beyond the awards, SGHA seeks to give deserving changemakers greater visibility and credibility while providing a platform for their work to inspire others.
As SGHA heads towards its 2026 award ceremony, this year’s finalists are a reminder that even in challenging times, the commitment to doing good continues.
