MALAYSIAN changemakers aged between 22 and 35 years old are invited to apply for a short-term attachment at any globally top-ranked university, institution or organisation through a grant offered by the Merdeka Award Trust.
The Merdeka Award Grant for International Attachment, offered once every two years, is now open for application until May 1 this year.
Selected recipients will benefit from full tuition fee, accommodation and travel during the short-term attachment period of up to three months, upon acceptance at the recipient’s institution of choice.
Kerina Fauzi, secretary to the Board of Trustees of the Merdeka Award Trust said, “Through the Grant, upcoming and talented Malaysians under the age of 35 who embody the Spirit of Merdeka will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure and establish a strong network of working relationships with global experts at internally-recognised institutions.
"Upon their return, they are expected to impart their discoveries and experience for greater impact, all towards a sustainable future,” she said.
The Grant aims to promote thought leadership and innovation, foster a culture of excellence and encourage a world view, thereby enhancing Malaysia’s standing as a dynamic, competitive 21st-century global player in all key sectors from science and technology to the arts.
A total of 24 individuals, from public and private universities as well as organisation leaders, have since received the Grant since it was launched in 2012.
The Grant is looking for those who are working on or looking to extend or expand their body of work in several related fields such as environmental conservation and biodiversity, education and community work, health science and technology, art and culture, visual and performing arts, heritage and social work, sports, economics and finance and many more.
“Over the years, we have seen improved quality as well as an increase in the variety and volume of applications.
"Selected candidates have been accepted into some of the world’s best institutions quite comfortably – an encouraging indicator that Malaysia’s talent continues to be of outstanding calibre,” Kerina continued.
“Through the Grant, we want to maintain a virtuous cycle of Malaysians who are inspired towards excellence,” said Kerina.
She added that grant recipients would be encouraged to foster the growth of more outstanding talents locally.
On the Merdeka Award Grant’s selection process, Kerina said, “Deserving recipients are selected through careful evaluation by the Merdeka Award Secretariat and Founders Committee from Petronas and Shell, followed by a Selection Committee, and a final decision by the Merdeka Award Board of Trustees.”
Aspiring Malaysians are encouraged to apply at The Merdeka Award – Grant Application site, with supporting documents and details before the closing date.
For more information, go to www.merdekaaward.my, Facebook page http://j.mp/merdekaaward, Instagram profile https://www.instagram.com/merdekaaward/ or YouTube channel http://bit.ly/merdekaawardyoutube. – The Vibes, January 17, 2023
