SGHA 2026 puts spotlight on changemakers

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 6, 2026

Twenty individuals and organisations in Malaysia are finalists for the Star Golden Hearts Award 2026, with judging focusing on sustainable and measurable community impact during the October 8 session. The award, now in its twelfth year, recognizes changemakers who demonstrate lasting contributions across diverse fields and will announce ten winners receiving cash prizes and increased visibility at the December ceremony.

Twenty individuals and organisations driving positive change across Malaysia are set to be evaluated during the final judging session of the Star Golden Hearts Award (SGHA) 2026, scheduled for October 8 in Petaling Jaya. The annual award, now in its twelfth year, aims to recognise and support those making a measurable and lasting impact in their communities.

This year’s judging panel includes experts from various sectors such as corporate leadership, media, sustainability, social welfare, and social entrepreneurship. Among the panel members are Tan Sri Wee Hoe Soon @ Gooi Hoe Soon, chairman of AIA Berhad; Datin Paduka Esther Ng, chief content officer of Star Media Group (SMG); Anita Ahmad, CEO of MySDG Foundation; B. Vijayakumari Pillai, former deputy director of the Social Welfare Department; Muhammad Hafizul Khair Mohd Yusuf, social entrepreneurship manager at the National Entrepreneurship Institute; Prathab Vengadasalam, principal consultant of ESGright Sdn Bhd; and Thanaselan Rajendran, managing director of Pepper Labs Sdn Bhd.

The judging process this year places increased emphasis on sustainable and measurable outcomes, reflecting SGHA’s ongoing focus on recognising efforts that generate meaningful and enduring change. Finalists will present their initiatives directly to the panel, followed by a question-and-answer session designed to evaluate the long-term effect and depth of their work beyond what is detailed in their submissions.

The range of projects under consideration covers various fields including social welfare, community empowerment, education, disaster and crisis relief, as well as environmental and wildlife conservation. SMG group CEO Chan Seng Fatt highlighted the significance of sustained impact in light of current social and economic challenges faced by communities. He noted that the award honours those who maintain their dedication despite such pressures, valuing the depth and longevity of contributions alongside their scale.

Since its inception in 2015, the SGHA has recognised more than 120 individuals and organisations committed to advancing community well-being. This year, ten winners—comprising five individuals and five organisations—will be announced at the SGHA 2026 award ceremony scheduled for December 8. Each winner will receive a cash prize of RM10,000, a trophy, and a certificate in acknowledgment of their work.

Beyond the monetary awards, SGHA provides a platform aimed at increasing visibility and credibility for changemakers, inspiring further community engagement. As the award approaches its year-end ceremony, this year’s finalists reflect a continued commitment to social improvement despite ongoing challenges.

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