In his acceptance speech for the inaugural Anugerah Harapan Merdeka in 2022, Malaysia's award-winning educator Samuel Isaiah told the story of how it was through Lego blocks that he learnt about inequality. It was a lesson he carried him as a teacher, and today, is best known for empowering the Orang Asli community through education, and his commitment to improving teacher quality. His speech ended with this poignant message:

"Most days, I'm an award-winning teacher and educator, but on some days I'm still that boy in the classroom wondering why I couldn't take part in a simple Lego competition. And so long as this memory lives in me, my hope for this nation remains for every child in Malaysia with a dream and a set of blocks - to have an equal opportunity to build their future."

In many ways, Isaiah's work - which has now enabled hundreds of teachers and Orang Asli children to achieve better academic outcomes - exemplifies the essence of the Merdeka Award, which was established jointly by PETRONAS and Shell in 2007.

Held every two years, the Merdeka Award aims to promote thought leadership and innovation, foster a culture of excellence, thereby enhancing the country's standing as a dynamic and competitive global player. It celebrates the works of those who have left indelible marks in Malaysian history, while inspiring a new generation to serve their nation for growth, development and progress.

"To me, a culture of excellence is one that inspires society to do good," comments Kerina Fauzi, Secretary of the Merdeka Award Trust. "All it takes are kind and compassionate people who are willing to fight alongside their compatriots and for the betterment of the people. Academic success means little if the application of it does not spur on the hunger and desire for further greatness. This is how we become a complete and mature society."

She added, "Malaysia is both a resilient and innovative nation, infused with strong moral and ethical values. We have been a beacon for the region and the world in many regards, and we can continue to hold the torch up as we work in raising the standard in all we do."

Every two years, Merdeka Award laureates are selected following an extensive search within Malaysia and internationally. In each cycle, more than 300 high-calibre individuals and organisations are evaluated based on distinction and sustainable impact in the areas of Health, Science and Technology, Environment, Education and Community, Scholastic Achievements, Contribution to the People of Malaysia and the newly introduced Anugerah Harapan Merdeka which recognises the efforts of Malaysians under the age of 40 years or organisations under 10 years.

Notable laureates who are recognised for their contribution include well-loved cartoonist and Royal Artist Datuk "Lat" Mohd Nor Khalid, humanitarian Tan Sri Dr. Jemilah Mahmood, medical physicist Professor Emeritus Dr. Ng Kwan Hoong, archaeologist Emeritus Professor Dato' Dr. Siti Zuraina Binti Abdul Majid, engineer and scientist Professor Datuk Ts. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail and many others who have applied courage and determination to emerge top in their field.

Meanwhile, Teach For Malaysia (TFM), Global Environment Centre (GEC), Malaysian Nature Society (MNS), Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA) and the Nipah Virus team are also celebrated for their relentless efforts in raising the bar for a better, safer and healthier society.

The recipients take home a trophy, certificate and cash reward, even as the recognition of their lifetime's work from such a prestigious organisation, remains the true prize. Marking its 14th cycle, Merdeka Award laureates 2024 will be announced this September.

The Merdeka Award Trust also offers a grant for international attachment for Malaysians, between 22 and 35 years old, looking to expand their world view and body of work at host institutions abroad.