One of the best New Year resolutions is helping others and we speak to our friends to find out how they plan on making the lives of people around them better.
January is always a good time for new beginnings and while New Year resolutions often centres around me, myself and I; we figured it’s a good time to ask our friends what’s the one (or more) thing they would like to do for others this year.
Tengku Datin Paduka Setia Zatashah, founder of #zerofoodwastage campaign
My New Year resolution for 2017 would be to keep on driving my campaign #zerofoodwastage, whereby we channel surplus foods from supermarkets, hotels and restaurants to feed those in need such as the homeless and urban poor families. It's such a pity to see so much edible food thrown away while there are so many who are hungry. I'd already started successfully in 2016 but for 2017, I would like to see more partners and long term commitments to #zerofoodwastage.
Ruben Gnanalingam, CEO of Westports
This year, I want to ensure that more children get a chance for a better education or just education itself.
Gabrielle Tan, director of marketing for The Gardens Mall
I am a big believer in paying it forward. Each year, there are one or two local charities that I donate to, but I’m looking at shedding light on what’s happening in Aleppo, Syria and will donate to a non-profit organisation aiding the victims.
Datin Shalini Ganendra, managing director of Shalini Ganendra Fine Art
I want to help develop meaningful engagement with quality art and culture; and the application of creative practices to encourage education and thought. At the gallery, we strive for creative excellence; not just for the sake of beauty but also for exceptional development.
Lyn Siew, founder of Ruyi & Lyn
My resolution for 2017 is to advocate the mutual rescue concept in providing a second chance for abandoned and rescued animals in Malaysia by integrating them into our education and social system.
Animals are more than just a pet, they are educators of life’s lessons by teaching empathy, responsibility, loyalty and unconditional love. In turn, they hold an integral role in society as lifelong companions and effective therapists to the less fortunate.
My friends and I have set up a community of animal lovers called PAWS UP! which organises fundraising events to support local animal shelters and to raise awareness towards the beneficial role of animals within our society. We will eventually lobby their roles into our education system towards the goal of achieving a more tolerant society.
Ganesh Muren, founder of Saora Industries
In 2017, I want to be a tool, a stepping stone, a helping hand, a supportive shoulder to as many people as possible to take a step closer towards their full potential. I don't want to just inspire. I want to do something real.
Lee Ching Yi, chief marketing grazer of Amazin’ Graze
Trying to do more good is always high on my list. I'm passionate about trying to give women who come from less fortunate backgrounds a platform to learn skills and be able to work in a safe and healthy environment. I'm lucky to be able do this through my work at Amazin' Graze as we tend to look out for such women to form our kitchen team.
Muhaini Mahmud, self-employed
It will give me great joy to give most of my time to being a good mum, by setting a good example to my son on the meaning of a healthy and loving life so he will feel secure, confident and blessed.
If your New Year’s resolution is to get fit, here are some strategies you should stick by and make it a way of life.