Kuala Lumpur, 4 September – MERCY Malaysia is deeply honoured and humbled to be named the recipient of the 2026 Merdeka Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education & Community, one of Malaysia’s most prestigious recognitions for individuals and organisations whose contributions have significantly impacted society and nation-building.
The award recognises more than 27 years of MERCY Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian service, community resilience, healthcare access, disaster preparedness, humanitarian education, and sustainable recovery efforts in Malaysia and across the world. Since its establishment in 1999 following its first humanitarian mission to Kosovo, MERCY Malaysia has undertaken more than 500 missions in over 35 countries, including Malaysia, serving communities affected by disasters, conflicts, health emergencies and displacement.
For MERCY Malaysia, this recognition belongs not to the organisation alone, but to the thousands of volunteers, staff, humanitarian workers, donors, partners and supporters who have contributed their time, expertise and resources in service of humanity over the past two decades. Above all, it is dedicated to the communities that have entrusted MERCY Malaysia during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Receiving the Merdeka Award is a proud milestone in the organisation’s journey and serves as a testament to the compassion, professionalism and resilience that have defined MERCY Malaysia’s work since its inception. From emergency medical relief and disaster response to strengthening healthcare systems, mental health support, disaster risk reduction, humanitarian education and community empowerment, MERCY Malaysia has consistently championed the principle that humanitarian action must leave communities stronger, safer and more resilient.
YBhg. Dato’ Dr. Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus, President of MERCY Malaysia, said:
“We receive this distinguished honour with profound gratitude, humility and a deep sense of responsibility. The 2026 Merdeka Award is not merely a recognition of what MERCY Malaysia has accomplished over the past 27 years, but a recognition of the collective spirit of service demonstrated by thousands of Malaysians who have chosen compassion, solidarity and humanity.
While we take a moment to reflect on our journey, this award is not about looking back. Rather, it serves as a powerful reminder that our work is far from over. The humanitarian challenges facing our world today are becoming increasingly complex, from climate emergencies and conflicts to public health threats and growing vulnerabilities within communities.
This recognition strengthens our resolve to do more, to do better, and to continue striving for excellence in humanitarian action. MERCY Malaysia will remain committed to advancing humanitarian leadership, strengthening local and global resilience, empowering communities, and ensuring that every intervention contributes to a more compassionate, prepared and sustainable future.
We dedicate this award to every volunteer, humanitarian worker, donor, partner and community that has been part of our journey. Together, we will continue to build on this legacy of service and create an even greater impact for future generations.”
As MERCY Malaysia looks towards the future, the organisation remains committed to strengthening the Humanitarian-Development Nexus, expanding healthcare and resilience-building initiatives, advancing humanitarian education, investing in future humanitarian leaders, and supporting vulnerable communities both in Malaysia and internationally.
This recognition reinforces MERCY Malaysia’s belief that humanitarian action is not solely about responding to crises, but about restoring dignity, strengthening resilience, and creating pathways for communities to thrive long after a crisis has passed. Guided by its commitment to “Meaningful Action. Sustainable Resilience.”, MERCY Malaysia will continue to serve humanity with professionalism, integrity, accountability, and compassion.
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