How to nominate

Have an unsung hero in mind? Nominate them by completing the online form and uploading supporting materials if any. Remember, a detailed, thoughtful entry is essential to help your nominees stand out from the many nominations received. After all, their good work deserves to be known!

Nominations closed on 10 August 2025.

Featured: Reef Check Malaysia (2024 winner)
KEY DATES
16 June 2025
Nominations Open
10 August 2025
Nominations Deadline
20 November 2025
Winners Announcement

The Star Golden Hearts Award annually celebrates ten exceptional individuals and organisations nationwide, chosen from hundreds of inspiring nominations for their meaningful societal impact. This year (2025), the call for nominations ran from 16 June to 10 August and is now closed. Stay tuned to our website and The Star news for updates as we prepare to unveil Malaysia's unsung heroes!

Selection criteria
Malaysian individuals and organisations who fulfill the following selection criteria are eligible for the award:

Unsung heroes who on a personal capacity, or as an organisation (NGOs/ social enterprises/ societies), consistently carry out social efforts that leave a positive impact on Malaysians and help build bridges between different communities.

Efforts carried out should be innovative, with proven tangible impacts, and practise sustainability in its operations.

Unsung heroes who demonstrate admirable values and strong leadership in encouraging social change in communities.

Unsung heroes with a social impact track record of at least 18 months prior to their nomination.

Unsung heroes must be involved in the initiatives, including time, effort and ideas, and not just monetary contribution.

Featured: Borneon Sun Bear Conservation Centre(2023 winner)
Nominees can be nominated for various causes such as:
Featured: Silatul Rahim Bin Dahman
Community Empowerment

Efforts that help promote sustainable livelihood and improve quality of living through job opportunities, access to market and information, upskilling and training, provision of basic infrastructure etc.

Featured: Buku Jalanan Chow Kit
Education

Efforts that ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Featured: APE Malaysia
Environment and Wildlife

Efforts that promote protection, preservation, appreciation, and sustainable development for the environment including wildlife, forests, oceans and ultimately the planet.

Featured: Food Aid Foundation
Social Welfare

Efforts that provide wide-ranging support to address the basic needs of vulnerable communities including food aid, shelter, social services and more.

Featured: Search and Rescue Dogs Malaysia
Disaster and Crisis Relief

Other social causes that bring about positive impact to Malaysians or for the betterment of society.