KUALA LUMPUR: Thirty-six winners were honoured at the Malaysia Industry Awards (Minda) 2024 for building outstanding businesses which bolstered the country's economy.
Minda organising chairperson Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel said that the awards celebrate innovation and excellence that drives the nation forward.
"Minda recognises individuals and organisations that have set benchmarks in their fields, demonstrating leadership, resilience, and a commitment to excellence," he said.
Launched by the Federation of Malaysian Business Associations (FMBA) in 2023, Minda addresses the need to acknowledge industry players who have not received adequate recognition despite their efforts to revive and elevate their businesses.
Sri Ganesh noted a rise in nominations from outside the Klang Valley this year.
"This year, we are seeing about 10 to 12 winners from Johor. When we opened the nominations for them to join, we could see that they were willing to participate," he said.
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, and Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Ramanan Ramakrishnan.
Sri Ganesh said their attendance tonight highlights the strong collaboration between the government and the private sector, which is essential for fostering a conducive environment for business growth and innovation.
The event also launched the Malaysia Industry Book of Records and FMBA Cares, an initiative to support charitable organisations.
The book will feature groundbreaking achievements and milestones across various Malaysian industries, and will also feature the winners.
FMBA Chairman Datuk Abdul Malik Abdullah said that the award aims to make a meaningful impact and recognise diverse industries.
"We accept nominations from all sectors, not just hotels and restaurants. There are seven judges, including one from SME Corp, and a board of four advisers including Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar, senior political secretary to the Prime Minister," he said.
He assured that the appointment of the judges and the awarding process is systematic.
Minda received over 200 nominations.
Among the awards presented were the Lifetime Achievement Award, Madani Awards, Annual Achievement Awards, Industry Excellence Awards, Industry Innovation Awards, and Industry Outstanding Awards.
Media Prima Omnia was honoured with the Outstanding National Media Broadcaster Award.