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The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Shining a spotlight on those who make a difference
Celebrating kindness: Star Media Group (SMG) group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt (third left) together with Melati (third right) at the Star Golden Hearts Award 2025 launch ceremony. With them are (from left) SMG chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng, SMG chief operating officer Lydia Wang, and McDonald's Malaysia corporate communications senior managers Afni Adnan and Wan Shariena Bahrom. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star PETALING JAYA: Celebrating unsung heroes and dedication to making a difference are core values at the heart of the Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA), and these values deeply align with McDonald's Malaysia. McDonald's Malaysia senior vice-president and chief impact officer Melati Abdul Hai said SGHA is an ideal platform to honour selfless individuals who quietly uplift their communities. 'At McDonald's, we serve not only food but also people. SGHA really resonates with us because it celebrates unsung heroes – those who have committed themselves at a personal level to doing good in their communities. ALSO READ: Celebrating unsung heroes 'The award is a fantastic platform to recognise these individuals who give their time and effort to making a difference,' she said in an interview yesterday. Melati highlighted that McDonald's Malaysia has long been involved in community initiatives through its Program Komuniti @ McDonald's, which benefits over 10,000 people annually at the grassroots level. This commitment, she said, makes the company's involvement in SGHA a natural fit, as both aim to foster unity and bring communities together. 'We're particularly drawn to individuals committed to doing grassroots community work, as it mirrors our own core values at McDonald's. 'When acts of kindness come from the heart and people commit to helping others and uniting the community, it truly goes a long way. That's the Malaysia we envision,' she added. Now in its 11th year, SGHA returns under the theme 'Recognising the Unsung, Inspiring the Next', continuing its mission to honour Malaysians who make a difference through selfless action. 'We hope the award reminds Malaysians that you don't need a title, platform or big budget to make a difference. You just need a caring heart. 'For the recipients, we hope this recognition validates their efforts and encourages them to keep going, knowing that their work matters and is being seen,' said Melati. She also expressed hope that the award would inspire younger generations to step forward and take the initiative in giving back to their communities. 'To the youth, we hope this serves as an inspiration. We want to build a Malaysia that cares for its society, a community united through integrity and diversity,' she added. This year also marks the debut of the McDonald's Caring Hearts Award, a special category honouring individuals or grassroots groups whose heartfelt acts of kindness have uplifted lives in profound and lasting ways. The new category celebrates Malaysians whose selfless efforts create real impact in the lives of others, not for recognition, but out of a deep commitment to community well-being. For more information or to submit a nomination, visit
The Star
5 days ago
- General
- The Star
Celebrating unsung heroes
SGHA 2025 kicks off to recognise kindness of everyday M'sians PETALING JAYA: In an age where headlines are dominated by noise and speed, it is often the quiet acts of kindness that are unseen and uncelebrated, that truly hold communities together. Now in its 11th year, the Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA) returns to honour everyday Malaysians whose compassion and selflessness have made a lasting impact on others. This year also marks a new chapter for the award with McDonald's Malaysia coming on board as a strategic partner. ALSO READ: Shining a spotlight on those who make a difference In conjunction with the partnership, a new category, the McDonald's Caring Hearts Award, has been introduced to recognise heartfelt acts that change lives, often without fanfare. Nominations opened yesterday and will run for eight weeks until Aug 10. Star Media Group (SMG) group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt said the collaboration reflects shared values and a united mission between the two organisations. 'Together, Star Media Group and McDonald's Malaysia are committed to fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society by celebrating unsung heroes who make a real difference through compassion and action. 'We believe in the power of storytelling to shine a light on their impact, and now, with McDonald's Malaysia's support, we can amplify these voices and reach even more Malaysians,' said he during the launch at Menara Star here yesterday. On this year's theme, 'Recognising the Unsung, Inspiring the Next,' Chan likened the movement to a torch relay. 'We raise the torch to illuminate the path ahead, so others may follow, and one day, carry it forward themselves,' he said. 'The message is simple – real change begins with a caring heart.' McDonald's Malaysia senior vice president and chief impact officer Melati Abdul Hai echoed the sentiment, expressing a deep resonance with SGHA's mission. 'The unsung heroes that SGHA celebrates – the teachers who go the extra mile, the youth mentors, the food bank volunteers, the wildlife protectors, the flood rescue teams – are the very people who reflect the best of Malaysia. 'They don't seek recognition. They don't ask for rewards. They act out of empathy, conviction, and a sense of duty to one another. 'And in today's fast-paced, often polarised world, that quiet courage matters more than ever,' she said. 'At McDonald's Malaysia, we remain committed to being more than a business. We aim to be a positive force in the lives of Malaysians, not just today, but for generations to come.' As part of the launch, past SGHA winners, Food Aid Foundation general manager Afraz Said and International Council For Education Of People With Visual-Impairment regional president Silatul Rahim Dahman, shared their experiences and journeys after receiving the award. Guests also participated in a walkabout and interacted with various booths set up by previous winners, including Reef Check Malaysia, The Asli Co, WWF-Malaysia, Helping Hands Penan, MYReaders and Food Aid Foundation. The event was officiated by Chan and Melati, and joined by the panel of judges. The newly appointed chief judge is Tan Sri Wee Hoe Soon @ Gooi Hoe Soon, a distinguished corporate leader with a deep commitment to advancing social good and community development through sustainable leadership. Also present were SMG chief operating officer Lydia Wang and chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng. The SGHA will see 10 outstanding recipients selected by an esteemed panel of judges representing diverse expertise in the field of social impact. Winners will share a total cash prize of RM90,000, receive extensive media coverage across Star Media Group's platforms, and gain exclusive access to the SGHA Winners Network. SGHA recognises the extraordinary contributions of Malaysians across five key pillars: community empowerment; education; environment and wildlife; social welfare; and disaster and crisis relief. Since its inception in 2015, the award has honoured more than 100 individuals and organisations whose efforts have inspired action, transformed lives, and strengthened communities nationwide. The public is invited to nominate individuals or organisations whose work aligns with SGHA's five pillars. Self-nominations are also welcomed. For more information or to submit a nomination, please visit
The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
The Star Golden Hearts Award returns for 11th edition
PETALING JAYA: The Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA) has returned in its 11th edition, once again celebrating everyday unsung Malaysian heroes who drive positive change and unity in their communities. Following the theme 'Recognising the Unsung, Inspiring the Next', this year's edition also features a new sponsor - McDonald's Malaysia, marking a significant milestone in the award's mission in championing the efforts of individuals and organisations whose impactful work often go unnoticed. SGHA 2025 also marks the debut of the McDonald's Caring Hearts Award, a special recognition honouring individuals or grassroots groups whose heartfelt acts of kindness have uplifted lives in profound and lasting ways. Star Media Group group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt said the collaboration with McDonald's Malaysia, reflects the shared value and a united mission. 'Together, Star Media Group and McDonald's Malaysia are committed to fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society by celebrating unsung heroes who make a real difference through compassion and action. 'We believe in the power of storytelling to shine a light on their impact, and now, with McDonald's Malaysia's support, we can amplify these voices and reach even more Malaysians,' said Chan in his speech at the launch ceremony here on Monday (June 16). McDonald's Malaysia senior vice-president and chief impact officer Melati Abdul Hai said partnering with SGHA reinforces McDonald's Malaysia's purpose-driven mission and aligns with its core values. 'Together, we aim to elevate the voices of change makers who are transforming lives in powerful yet often unrecognised ways. 'This partnership is a reminder that corporate responsibility goes beyond business. It's about creating an enduring, meaningful impact,' she said. She also highlighted McDonald's Malaysia's longstanding commitment to supporting local communities through its nationwide Program Komuniti @ McDonald's initiative. The event was officiated by Chan and Melati, and joined by the panel of judges. The newly appointed chief judge is Tan Sri Wee Hoe Soon @ Gooi Hoe Soon, a distinguished corporate leader with a deep commitment to advancing social good and community development through sustainable leadership. Also present were Star Media Group chief operating officer Lydia Wang and chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng. Through the SGHA, 10 outstanding recipients will be selected by an esteemed panel of judges, each bringing diverse expertise in the field of social impact. The winners will share a total cash prize of RM90,000, receive extensive media coverage across Star Media Group's platforms, and gain exclusive access to the SGHA Winners Network. SGHA recognises the extraordinary contributions of Malaysians across five key pillars - community empowerment; education; environment and wildlife; social welfare; and disaster and crisis relief. Since its inception in 2015, SGHA has honoured over 100 individuals and organisations whose efforts have inspired action, transformed lives, and strengthened communities nationwide. The SGHA 2025 nomination campaign opens today (June 16) and will run for eight weeks until August 10. The public is invited to nominate individuals or organisations whose work aligns with SGHA's five pillars. Self-nominations are also encouraged. For more information or to submit a nomination, visit
The Star
05-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Business awards launched to promote entrepreneurial excellence
PETALING JAYA: With the theme of 'Powering Tomorrow: Driving Sustainable Growth' the Star Outstanding Business Awards 2025 continues to recognise and honour businesses and entrepreneurs that have excelled in their quest for success and achievement. Launched at Menara Star on June 5, the event was attended by sponsors and partners, with Star Media Group (SMG) chief executive officer (CEO) Chan Seng Fatt at the helm, together with chief operating officer Lydia Wang. The event was also graced by SOBA 2025 sponsors Credit Guarantee Corp Malaysia Bhd (CGC), PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd (PKT Logistics), RHB Bank Bhd (RHB Bank) and U Mobile Sdn Bhd (U Mobile), together with official trade promotion partner Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (Matrade), as well as the awards' strategic and working partners. In his welcome speech Chan pointed out that since Malaysia officially assumed the Asean chairmanship on Jan 1 this year, the country is at a strategic inflection point in its regional journey. 'This leadership role serves as a powerful springboard to strengthen regional integration, enhance market diversification and advance economic diplomacy,' he said. This presents local businesses the opportunity to venture into new markets on a global scale. 'At the same time, we are navigating a rapidly evolving business landscape – driven by technological disruption, shifting consumer expectations and the increasing imperative for sustainable practices. 'In this new era, agility, foresight and innovation will distinguish those who endure from those who lead,' he cautioned. In a statement, CGC president and CEO Datuk Mohd Zamree Mohd Ishak emphasised that CGC is committed to empowering Malaysian micro SMEs (small and medium enterprises) and supporting platforms like SOBA 2025 reflects that mission. 'By recognising SME excellence, we highlight deserving businesses that may benefit from greater access to financing.' PKT Logistics chief revenue officer Kuan Eu Jin said: 'PKT is a homegrown company and was once an SME. Through ups and downs, we learnt a lot along the way and feel honoured to be able to share it on such a celebrated event like SOBA.' He advised that in times of uncertainty, SMEs should be able to flex and adapt to the situation, that they should stay close to the powers of the market and innovate a way out or adapt to changing needs. For RHB Bank, group corporate and business banking managing director Wendy Ting said: 'RHB's continued support for SOBA and similar platforms reflects our commitment to advancing SME excellence as a national economic priority'. She also shared that for businesses to stay competitive in the current economic climate, they should embrace digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI), invest in sustainability and green growth, enhance their cybersecurity and data resilience, prioritise human capital and upskilling and leverage government and private sector support. U Mobile chief information officer Neil Tomkinson said: 'SOBA is a timely platform to spotlight how SMEs are adapting to major shifts in tech and customer expectations.' He added that in 2025, trends like Al enablement, cybersecurity, and digital agility will determine business longevity and U Mobile is ready to lead businesses on their journey. Matrade senior director of Strategic Planning Division, Remee Yaakub noted that 'SMEs are the backbone of Malaysia's economy, contributing significantly to job creation, innovation and exports. 'By supporting platforms like SOBA, we not only recognise outstanding achievements but also inspire more SMEs to adopt best practices, strive for global competitiveness, and drive the nation's trade performance.' The launch revealed knowledge-sharing platforms, the SOBA LABs, will continue to offer insights from seasoned business leaders. Those interested can also look forward to SOBA Elevate, an initiative that presents actionable strategies, networking opportunities and more. The launch also announced six SOBA ambassador appointments for this year from business association experts and past winners. SOBA Awards 2025 will be presented in 18 categories, in two separate tiers: one for below RM25mil, and another for RM25mil and above. Also included is the Mikro SOBA Mikro Recognition Awards, which recognises local micro brands or businesses with annual turnover of less than RM300,000. SOBA 2025 is organised by SMG with CGC, PKT Logistics, RHB Bank and U Mobile as main sponsors, and Matrade as the official trade promotion partner. It is audited by BDO while radio stations 988 and Suria are official media partners. For details, call the SOBA hotline at 017-231 1789 or visit
