KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 28): Seven outstanding Malaysians have been conferred the prestigious 2024 Merdeka Award for their remarkable contribution to Malaysia and her people, and for fostering a culture of excellence.

The 2024 awards also marked the 17th anniversary of the Merdeka Award Trust, which celebrates individuals in new fields this year by recognising laureates in the areas of performing arts and Malay literature, environment conservation advocacy, economy, education and initiatives to ensure equitable and quality healthcare and investigative journalism.

According to a statement from the trust, which was founded by Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) And Shell, the seven recipients are:

for multifaceted contributions to Malay literature encompassing novels, poetry, essays, dramas and performing arts.

for pioneering the nation’s performing arts scene via theatre drama and media to drive social and cultural awareness and advocacy.

for effectively navigating the science-policy interface with extensive research on climate change and fostering international collaborations to safeguard environments and communities.

for unwavering dedication in shaping healthcare policies and initiatives to ensure equitable and quality healthcare, especially in improving patient access to vital nephrology services nationwide.

for contributions as an outstanding academician, eminent economist, and trusted advisor to global and local policymakers addressing pressing economic developmental issues worldwide.

for unwavering dedication to improving education access for underprivileged children through Etania Schools, offering customised quality education and vocational training in Sabah.

for spearheading investigative journalism in Malaysia amongst youth, delivering impactful multimedia documentaries and innovative public action campaigns against social injustices.

The laureates this year were selected after an extensive search within Malaysia and internationally, with over 400 high-calibre individuals and organisations evaluated based on their distinction and sustainable impact in their body of work.

The awards were presented by Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah, who is also the trust’s royal patron and chairman. Each Merdeka Award category recipient gets a Merdeka Award trophy, a certificate of recognition, as well as cash reward. The Anugerah Harapan Merdeka recipient gets a certificate of recognition and cash reward.

“The tireless efforts and the extraordinary achievements of these Merdeka Award recipients have drawn the attention of the world to issues that warrant our urgent action. Their zeal and determination have now helped accelerate our collective progress in addressing these challenges.

“These inspiring individuals personify the spirit of ‘Merdeka’ that continues to embolden generations of Malaysians in our pursuit of progress and excellence towards a sustainable future,” said Petronas president and group chief executive officer Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik, who is also on the Merdeka Award Board of Trustee.  

“As we build a society that is more compassionate, just and sustainable, we must uphold our values of striving for excellence, guided by a growing cadre of outstanding change-makers and trailblazers,” said fellow trustee board member and Shell Malaysia (Upstream) country chair cum senior vice president Siti Hurrairah Sulaiman.

With the seven additions this year, a total of 70 individuals and organisations have received the Merdeka Award since 2008.