There are plenty of kind-hearted and generous Malaysians who dedicate all their time to helping those in need.

One of them is social activist Kuan Chee Heng, and he's about to be recognised for all his good deeds.

Well-deserved recognition

Uncle Kentang is a local hero to many.Kuan, or more fondly known as Uncle Kentang amongst the people, has made the country proud after being selected to receive the prestigious Commonwealth Points of Light Award by Queen Elizabeth.

According to Malay Mail, Kuan was bestowed the award for his philanthropy work.

Taking to his official Facebook account, Kuan shared that he was informed of the award via email.

“It is truly a great honour to all of us, on our ways of assisting the needy,” he wrote.


Kuan added that he was surprised to be chosen, and he is sharing the honour with his followers who have been offering him support and encouragement to assist those who need it.

The 58-year-old -- who's been hailed as a local hero for setting up 10-sen marketplaces, taxis and hearse services, as well as setting up the Community Policing Malaysia -- revealed that he would be receiving the award on 12 June from the British High Commissioner.

We are bummed that Uncle Kentang will not be receiving the award from Queen Elizabeth herself, but we are still extremely proud and happy for him.

Only the fourth Malaysian to receive the award

First established by President George H. W. Bush in 1990, the Commonwealth Points of Light Award is awarded to worthy inspirational volunteers across the 53 Commonwealth nations as an appreciation for the difference they make in their communities and beyond.

In the 21 years of its inception, only three Malaysians have been bestowed the award: freshwater turtle researcher Chen Pelf Nyok, 'Teddy Bear Doctor' Dr Madhusudhan Shanmugam and founders of Zero Waste Malaysia movement Khor Sue Yee and Aurora Tin.

Next up, local preacher and fellow philantropist Ebit Lew, perhaps?