Young Mother Icon Award debuts, Bella Astillah named first recipient
Bella was awarded for her strength, resilience and dedication as a young mother.
KOTA KINABALU – Sabahan actress and singer Bella Astillah has been named the inaugural recipient of the Young Mother Icon Award, a new recognition introduced at the 2025 National Mother’s Day Celebration held at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
Bella, whose full name is Dayang Ara Nabeela Awang Astillah, was awarded for her strength, resilience and dedication as a young mother.
The honour was presented by Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah's wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin and witnessed by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Nancy Shukri.
Organised by the Ministry through the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), the event carried the theme ‘A Mother’s Touch of Love’ and gathered dignitaries including Sabah Chief Minister's wife Datin Seri Juliah Salag.
Bella expressed deep gratitude for the recognition in a heartfelt Instagram post following the ceremony.
“I’m truly thankful for this award. Honestly, I feel there are many others more deserving, but perhaps this is my sustenance.
“Apologies for my outfit today, as I wasn’t informed about the dress code. Whatever it is, thank you for the support and love shown. I am still learning and will continue to grow with humility,"she said.
The Young Mother Icon Award highlighted Bella’s journey as a public figure who has faced personal challenges while continuing to raise her children with unwavering love and commitment.
Her story was a beacon of hope and inspiration to many young mothers in Malaysia.
Also recognised during the event was Kasmirah Jaafar, a mother originally from Bekok, Johor, who was awarded the 2025 Inspirational Mother Award for her lifelong dedication to family and community in Sabah.
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