KUALA LUMPUR: They were no strangers to the headlines, and their private lives were often offered up for public consumption.
However, their struggles with health and money were not as widely reported.
They are the entertainers and athletes who captivated the nation with their talent and inspired many to reach for the stars.
Many of them were headed for a bleak Hari Raya Aidilfitri until an anonymous benefactor collaborated with FMT to donate RM1,000 each to 100 of them.
Yesterday, 50 members of the Malaysian Artistes’ Association (Karyawan) experienced kindness amid darkness at a Ramadan gathering of some 200 people at Parkroyal Hotel here.
The recipients included household names like Hail Amir, Uji Rashid, Norlia Ghani, Zaiton Sameon, Shima, Ali XPDC, Zaleha Hamid, Sophia Ibrahim, S Atan and Shuib of the Freedom band.
Over a hearty dinner, the veteran entertainers reminisced about the days when they would share the stage together.
Karyawan president Freddie Fernandez said: “Malaysia was built on the bonds of family and community, and rallying to the aid of those in need is the goodness the country needs.”
The guest of honour was the minister of domestic trade and cost of living, Armizan Mohd Ali, who lit up the occasion with guests such as Farahdhiya, Khadijah Ibrahim, Radhi Khalid, Rozita Rohaizad, Ezlynn, Norshila Amin and Haiza.
Meanwhile, on April 4, 50 members of the National Athletes Welfare Foundation or Yakeb will receive their share at a Ramadan affair at the Concord Hotel here.
The event will be graced by the sultan of Pahang, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, and his consort Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
‘Not just a duty, but a privilege’
FMT managing director Azeem Abu Bakar said the media portal was dedicated to supporting and honouring the artistic and sporting community.
He recalled how FMT was started by a small team that endured various challenges to become a top media organisation in the country.
“Today, FMT engages an audience of over six million a month, with over 33% market share of voice online, a testament to the readers’ trust and support.
“This trust and FMT’s influential platform compel us to act responsibly and contribute positively to society, including the artistic and sporting sectors,” he said.
Azeem said FMT’s ability to make the RM100,000 contribution was due to the generosity of the benefactor “whose support has enabled us to further extend our commitment to arts and sport”.
He added that it was gratifying for the donor to provide financial support to those who played a part in nation-building.
Azeem also said FMT’s dedication goes beyond merely highlighting the challenges faced by artistes and athletes.
“We are committed to actively improving their well-being. Honouring and supporting them is not just a duty but a privilege.
“It acknowledges the common ground that FMT shares in content creation – a challenging yet profoundly societal-shaping endeavour.
“Like artistes, FMT knows the effort required to curate and produce creative content, a process filled with tests but essential in adding vibrancy and depth to society.
“FMT’s ongoing support for local artistes is unwavering, demonstrated through initiatives like the recent collaboration with Persatuan Pembangunan Artisan, which successfully generated RM1 million in revenue,” he said.
He also noted that the responsibility to uplift arts and sports was not FMT’s alone. “Other media outlets should join in this vital effort, ensuring the growth and sustainability of both industries.” - FMT
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