KUALA LUMPUR: The first-ever Malaysia Achievement Awards (MACA) is gearing up for an explosive debut this Thursday at the DoubleTree by Hilton's Grand Ballroom.
The gala night will commemorate the nation's unsung heroes of 2010-2011, featuring prominent figures whom have made it big on both local and international platforms. MACA chairman Datuk Seri Azman Ujang said MACA stands out from other the other awards as it encompasses a wide range of achievements rather specific industries.
"Our committee, together with the appointed auditor Moore Stephens AC, divided the finalists into two main categories - Outstanding Achievement and Special Achievement," he said in a press conference at the hotel at Jalan Tun Razak yesterday.
"We have completed our evaluation for the first-round of entrants last Saturday and will reveal the second-round of finalists on the eve of the awards."
He said during the selection process, the committee worked out a marking system to evaluate candidates based on their achievements.
And while their identities remain a mystery, Razak revealed among the recipients are internationally-renowned local artist and sports figures who have guided the nation to victory in regional competitions.
"Among the highlights include a group of secondary school students who won the science contest awards in Germany and France, regional award-winning hairstylists, as well as special guests including Malaysia's first-ever astronaut Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor." Accompanying Datuk Azman during the press conference was MACA's deputy chairman Razali Datuk Rahmat, project director Riza Ismail and executive committee member Datin Nor Hafizah Ismail.
"A total of 13 grand awards will be given out, each focusing on major industries and segments," Razali said.
He added that categories for Outstanding Achievements are in sports, arts and culture, entertainment, agriculture, food and beverages, medical health and beauty, information and communications technology, telecommunications and innovation, educational research and development as well as non-government and non-profit organisations.
Meanwhile, the Special Achievement category which caters to prominent figures and large corporations features five awards: the Malaysia Achievement of the Year awards for Youth, Women, Individuals/Teams and Organisations categories as well as Lifetime Achievement awards.
"These in turn are divided into sub-categories for individual and organisational achievements," he said, adding that 12 recipients will be awarded in the individual category with another 14 in organisational.
"The awards aim to inspire the spirit of 'Malaysia Boleh' among Malaysians," added Datin Nor Hafizah. "We hope Thursday's turnout will bring out the best in all of us so that they can aspire to go further for next year's ceremony."
There will also be plenty of media coverage such as from Internet Protocol television (IPTV) channel 1Malaysia TV, who will be able to upload the night's footage on the website.
The MACA is a registered independent non-government organisation that liaises between the government and individuals to facilitate development towards inspiring top Malaysian achievements at local and international levels. Among other activities conducted are seminars and motivation clinics that offers guidance and consultations.
For more information visit www.maca.com.my or contact MACA communcations executive Rina Azura at 03-7803 3646 or 010-366 2289 or e-mail at rina@maca.my.
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