MyHero 5.0 will honour eight Malaysians for acts of kindness that strengthen national unity, with six adults receiving RM5,000 and two youths RM2,500 each.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians must turn compassion into action to build stronger communities and foster national unity, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said.
Speaking at the launch of the MyHero 5.0 Awards today, he said the awards aimed to honour individuals who demonstrated courage, compassion and commitment in helping others, particularly those who contributed to society without seeking publicity or recognition.
“Many significant changes happen because of individuals who are not famous, do not seek publicity and do not expect recognition,” he said.
Aaron cited teachers who educate children beyond school hours, neighbours who care for the elderly, volunteers who assist during floods and other disasters, and healthcare workers who provide treatment to bedridden patients at home.
He said such contributions played an important role in nation-building by fostering empathy, trust and a shared sense of responsibility among Malaysians.
Previous editions of the awards have recognised 24 Malaysians from various backgrounds, including Dr Mohammed Hazimi Abdul Razak, who provides ambulance services and medical care to bedridden patients; Tan Cheng Teng, who works to secure medical facilities and equipment for Lahad Datu Hospital; and journalist Peter Wee Eng Ming, who highlights the plight of people facing hardship.
This year, MyHero 5.0 introduces two nomination categories: the Adult Category for individuals aged 21 and above, and the Youth Category for those below 21.
Aaron said the introduction of the youth category was important in nurturing compassion and volunteerism among younger generations.
He also highlighted the role of community initiatives, including the Rukun Tetangga (RT) and the Voluntary Patrol Scheme (SRS), in promoting neighbourhood safety and mutual assistance.
Referring to the Covid-19 pandemic, he said Malaysians had demonstrated solidarity by providing food and essential supplies to families in need, regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.
“While we may differ in language, culture and religion, we share the same responsibility to ensure that no one in our community is left alone when they need help,” he said.
Under the theme “Revive a Culture of Caring”, Aaron urged Malaysians to move beyond sympathy and take meaningful action to help those in need.
He said the awards should continue to serve as a national platform to recognise unsung heroes, encourage volunteerism and strengthen ties between communities.
The initiative is supported by the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KLSCCCI), Nanyang Siang Pau and the National Unity and Integration Department (JPNIN), among other partners.
Nominations are now open for the fifth edition of the MyHero Awards, which recognises Malaysians whose acts of kindness across racial and cultural backgrounds have helped strengthen national unity.
Eight recipients will be selected across the two categories.
Six recipients aged 21 and above will each receive RM5,000, while two recipients below 21 will each receive RM2,500.
All recipients will also receive a trophy and certificate and be appointed Unity Ambassadors by JPNIN.
Both nominees and proposers must be Malaysian citizens.
The nominated act must involve helping someone from a different racial background, have genuinely occurred on or after Aug 31, 1957, and not have previously received a similar award.
Proposers must have witnessed or been personally involved in the act. Shortlisted nominees and proposers must also agree to media interviews and documentation.
Applications can be submitted online at www.myunsungunityhero.my, accompanied by a summary of the contribution detailing the date, time, location and circumstances, as well as supporting photographs.
The closing date for nominations is Dec 31.
For enquiries, call 03-2303 6732 or 03-2303 6723, or email myhero@chinesechamber.org.my.