PETALING JAYA: Proud, honoured and grateful – this sums up the feelings of the winners of the Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA) 2024.
Out of over 500 nominations received for SGHA’s 10th instalment, these selfless individuals and organisations dedicated their achievements to their whole team.
RIMAU president Lara Ariffin, whose organisation aims to conserve and protect the Malayan tiger, said the award is another push for them to amplify the plight of the endangered animal.
“To be selected from among more than 500 nominees is truly a wonderful recognition, not only to our team in Kuala Lumpur but more importantly, to the 110 patrollers who are working day and night to help save the endangered Malayan tiger,” said Lara, who received the award under the wildlife pillar.
For the crisis and disaster relief pillar, Search and Rescue Dogs Malaysia president Datuk Dr Mohd Nordin Mohd Nor was hopeful that the SGHA recognition would draw more public interest in its efforts.
“The recognition is very important to us because through this, we hope that more people will come to know about us.
“We would like to attract more people, particularly youth, to participate in this (cause) and be part of what we consider an honourable exercise,” he said.
The organisation trains dogs for life-saving missions during disasters and emergencies.
WWF-Malaysia’s Sarawak Wildlife Conservation senior programme assistant Affy Azlizam Senin echoed his views, saying he was hopeful for more awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation.
“We also hope that by winning this award, we can work better in the future,” he said.
Food Aid Foundation founder Rick Chee applauded Star Media Group Bhd for the awards that recognise the work of social workers.
“This will bear some significant motivation to all of us on the ground, and hopefully it can inspire people to do more for the community.
“We believe that the power of the community, together with passion, can deliver significant changes to those who are in need,” said Chee, who runs a food bank and was recognised under the social welfare pillar.
Malaysian Foundation for the Blind chief executive officer Silatul Rahim Dahman said he wanted to further empower the blind community, especially with the award he received under the community development pillar.
“I look forward to serving this special community for many, many more years to come, not only in Malaysia but beyond.
“I think it is high time that people with visual impairment are fully recognised in society and given a fair opportunity to contribute to the nation’s development,” he added.
