KUCHING: The Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) Sarawak witnessed its first ever virtual Volunteers’ Recognition Night 2020 on its official YouTube channel last Saturday (Dec 12).
Due to the pandemic and for the safety of all volunteers, the organiser has decided to shift the annual event to recognise and appreciate many honourable volunteers, fully online.
MRC Sarawak chairman Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam said MRC Sarawak plays an important role to assist the public authorities in the humanitarian field to stop further death through its mitigation effort in combating Covid-19 pandemic.
“We need to take a strong collective action through maintaining physical distance, avoid crowds and big gathering and wearing masks, constantly washing hands and isolate ourselves when taken ill. Taking these hard choices now will pay off in the coming weeks and months.
“I am proud MRC Sarawak practises what it teaches as evident from this event that is taking place right now — organising the event virtually, for the safety of our volunteers,” he said during the event.
During the ceremony, more than 40 categories of awards were presented to officers, leaders, members and volunteers for their great work done last year.
MRC Sibu District second vice chairman Normah Abdul Rahman won the Volunteer of The Year Award. 
MRC Sibu District BAR 7 chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee won the Long Service Medal. 
MRC Sibu District O/C Training, Ting Siao Fong won the Excellent Service Medal.
Annually, MRC Sarawak State Volunteers’ Recognition Night celebrates the spirit of volunteerism and showcases the voluntary efforts of countless individuals and groups.
In recognising specific individuals or organisations, the awards focus public attention on the vast spectrum of voluntary service and community participation that sustains the vibrant and caring community in which we live.
The awards were divided into 2 categories; National Awards — presented by the MRC National Headquarter to volunteers and members for their outstanding contributions towards the voluntary services in 2019 as well as State Awards — nominated by MRC Districts/Sarawak and awarded by MRC Sarawak State in recognition of their excellent performance and services in 2019.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of “Volunteer of The Year” Award to MRC Sibu District second vice chairman Normah Abdul Rahman.
The national awards — “Long Service Medal” was presented to MRC Sibu District BAR 7 chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee who has been serving for 45 years, while the “Excellent Service Medal” was given to MRC Sibu District O/C Training, Ting Siao Fong.
The live virtual event can be replayed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIDbQefGyt0.
