Independence is indeed a milestone but it is only the threshold to high endeavour. I call upon you to dedicate yourselves, to work and strive with hand and brain to create a new nation.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj
Malaysia's First Prime Minister
The Merdeka Award commemorates the true spirit of independence which transcends the conventional definition of national sovereignty. It explores the liberation of the mind and spirit – factors which foster the realisation of human potential and the pursuit of excellence. The Merdeka Award aims at the encouragement of going beyond the ordinary and of stretching beyond comfort zones, aspiring to create a new mindset among Malaysians.
The Merdeka Award thus celebrates and rewards the independence of the mind and spirit, the strength of character and integrity that underpins meaningful achievement and the creativity and vision that enables greatness.