11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
Bella Astillah named Young Mother Icon at National Mother's Day 2025
KOTA KINABALU: Actress and singer Bella Astillah, 31, has been named the recipient of the Young Mother Icon Award in conjunction with the 2025 National Mother's Day Celebration, held today at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
The award — comprising a certificate, sash, and bouquet — was presented by Toh Puan Faridah Tussin, wife of the Yang di-Pertua of Sabah, and witnessed by Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, along with Datin Seri Juliah Salag, wife of the Sabah Chief Minister.
Bella, whose full name is Dayang Ara Nabeela Awang Astillah, admitted she was initially in disbelief upon learning she had been selected.
"At first, I couldn't believe it, so I checked with my management — and they confirmed I had indeed been chosen for the Young Mother Icon Award. I was overjoyed; it's a feeling that's hard to put into words.
"I believe many others are just as, if not more, deserving. But perhaps this is a blessing — for me and for my children. I was truly speechless. I hope this encourages me to grow and become a better mother."
Bella, a mother of two, acknowledged her own imperfections but said the recognition inspired her to continue striving.
"I know I have many shortcomings, and I'm far from the perfect mum. But my children give me strength — they are my motivation to keep going."
She also shared heartfelt advice, particularly for young working mothers and single mums, urging them to prioritise time with their children.
"I may not be fully qualified to give advice, as I'm still learning too, but I'll share what I've experienced. Once you become a mother, your children naturally become your priority.
"What they need most is love and affection. Since I also take on the role of both mother and father, I choose to prioritise time over money. At this stage, while they're still little, quality time is everything.
"One day they'll remember that even though I was busy working, I still made the effort to be present, to make them happy, and to ensure they felt loved."
Bella encouraged fellow young mothers to always give their best — especially for their children.
"Keep moving forward. Don't be overwhelmed by worry about the future — that's not our burden to bear. We just need to go through the journey with trust and an open heart.
"Leave the rest to God. What matters most is appreciating every moment in the present and being grateful for what we have — that's the key."
