The Merdeka Award was founded on August 27, 2007, in conjunction with the celebration of Malaysia’s 50th anniversary of its independence, to recognise and reward Malaysians and non-Malaysians who have made outstanding and lasting contributions to the nation and the people of Malaysia in their respective fields. The Merdeka Award aims to promote thought leadership and innovation, foster a culture of excellence and encourage a worldview, thereby enhancing Malaysia’s standing as a dynamic, competitive 21st century global player in all key sectors from science and technology to the arts. The Award is so named to capture and commemorate the “Spirit of Merdeka” as demonstrated by the nation’s forefathers, which is about foresight, discipline, perseverance and self-sacrifice. It is where the true meaning of independence lies in the liberation of the mind and spirit – factors that foster the realisation of human potential and the pursuit of excellence. Each year, the annual Merdeka Award is conferred on individuals and/or organizations whose excellent work and achievements have made an outstanding impact on the nation and its people in the following categories, namely Education & Community; Environment; Health, Science and Technology; Outstanding Scholastic Achievement; and Outstanding Contribution to the People of Malaysia. The Award categories reflect focus areas that are regarded as instrumental to the overall growth and development of a nation. In the event that in a given year, two individuals and/or organizations are deemed to be equally deserving of recognition, the Award will be shared. The Merdeka Award Recipient receives the Merdeka Award Trophy, the Merdeka Award Work of Art, a Certificate of Recognition and a cash award. The founding members -- PETRONAS and Shell -- also hope that in commemorating this pioneering spirit, the Award will help strengthen the intellectual foundation and elements of civil society that will drive a nation’s economic and social progress. In addition to the presentation of awards, the Merdeka Award Trust also runs two signature programmes -- the Merdeka Award Roundtables, a series of TV talk shows designed to inspire debate and discussion on issues of interest to Malaysians, and the Merdeka Award Grant for International Attachment, a short-term grant for young Malaysians looking to build on their body of work and experience in areas of long-term benefit to the country. More information on the Merdeka Award at www.merdekaaward.my
