Dr Adeeba, Dr Siti Zuriana among six 2022 Merdeka Award recipients

Dr Adeeba was awarded in the Health, Science and Technology category for her contribution and commitment in leading the mitigation of infectious diseases as well as structuring the policies and responses to HIV/AIDS in Malaysia.

While Siti Zuraina won the award in the Outstanding Scholastic Achievement category for her contribution and role in the discovery of the 'Perak man', besides her efforts in promoting the designation of Lenggong Valley as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site.

Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah who is the royal patron and chairman of the Merdeka Award Trust (MAT) presented the awards to the recipients from six categories during a ceremony, here.

Also present were Raja Permaisuri of Perak, Tuanku Zara Salim and Petronas president and group chief executive officer Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik Tengku Kamadjaja Aziz.

A new category, Anugerah Harapan Merdeka was introduced this year which was conferred on PEMIMPIN GSL programe director, Samuel Isaiah for his outstanding contribution and commitment in improving and uplifting education standard among the Orang Asli children as well as in coaching teachers.

The other recipients were Southeast Asia section head at the British Library, Datuk Dr Annabel Teh Gallop (Outstanding Contribution to the People of Malaysia category) and two non-profit organisations namely Teach For Malaysia (Education and Community category) and Global Environment Centre (GEC) (Environment category).

Sultan Nazrin in his speech said whilst recognising these individuals and leaders, MAT also wanted to nurture among young Malaysians the pioneering spirit that has helped to drive our country's progress.

"The Trust (MAT) also aims to advance the important work that they do, and to amplify the impact they make in the social, economic, and environmental realms," he said.

Each recipient was conferred a Merdeka Award trophy, certificate of recognition and cash rewards, while the Anugerah Harapan Merdeka recipient received a certificate of recognition and cash reward.

The Merdeka Award was founded on Aug 27, 2007, in conjunction with Malaysia's 50th independence anniversary 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.