KUALA LUMPUR: Renowned producer Wendy Wong and her close friend, co-producer Datuk Nancie Foo, each received special awards at the W.I.S.H. (Women of Inspiration, Strength and Honour) Global Leadership Summit & Women Leadership Awards 2026, held at a hotel in the capital recently.
The two also shared the historic moment on their respective social media accounts several days ago, uploading photographs of themselves celebrating the occasion with fellow artistes and close friends during the event.
Meanwhile, Wendy received the W.I.S.H. International Influential Film Producer, Director & Writer Award.
Nancie, who is also well known for her involvement in the police drama Gerak Khas, said she was deeply moved by the recognition.
“This award has given us renewed motivation—not just to us, but to the entire creative community—to continue creating and working hard to bring our productions to the international stage.
“Each recipient has their own strengths and is an icon in their respective field,” said Nancie, who expressed her appreciation to her family, friends and, in particular, Wendy, for encouraging and inspiring her to remain active in the arts.
Wendy, meanwhile, said she never expected to receive the award at the ceremony, especially with her latest production, Last Dive, set to hit the big screen soon.
“I never expected to receive this award before our latest production is released in cinemas. We have been involved in the entertainment industry for quite some time.
“This award motivates us to continue creating. Previously, people asked why we were still active in the industry. The answer is that we believe we have a special platform to educate and enhance the audience’s experience, while also achieving high ratings for our programmes.
“For example, when we produced television series such as Kisah Benar some time ago, it received a positive response from viewers. There were many clear messages conveyed to the audience, providing valuable lessons,” she said.
She said that before retiring, they hoped to leave a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
“Before Covid-19, Nancie had been thinking about retiring from the entertainment industry. However, I convinced her to come up with a film titled Sumpahan Jerunei. The positive response it received further strengthened our motivation to create productions that have an impact on audiences,” Wendy added.
Earlier, several other celebrities and prominent figures from various fields also received awards at the prestigious event. Among them were legendary singer Datuk Khatijah Ibrahim, who received the W.I.S.H. Lifetime Legacy Award; Dr Jessie Chung, who received the W.I.S.H. Global Excellence in Performing Arts, Entrepreneurship & Humanitarian Leadership Award; Dr Ezany Nizariff, recipient of the W.I.S.H. The Global Luminary Award for Outstanding Leadership, Innovation & Multidisciplinary Excellence; and Datuk Wira Dr Azizan Osman, who received the W.I.S.H. Chairman Award for Outstanding Contribution to Women Entrepreneurship & Nation Building.
The event was further enlivened by a series of fashion showcases featuring different themes and renowned designers. Musical performances were also presented by invited artistes, including Khatijah Ibrahim, who performed her latest single, Ibu Doa, for the first time, as well as singer and lyricist Aiman Sidek, who performed Menemukanmu, from the soundtrack of Last Dive.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of the wife of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah; the wife of the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datin Seri Hamidah Khamis; W.I.S.H. 2026 chairperson Datin Seri Nurulhidayah Ahmad Zahid; and National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) chairperson Datuk Sri Hajah Rohani Abdul Karim.
In her speech, Nurulhidayah said W.I.S.H. was established with a clear aspiration—to create a meaningful platform that not only recognises women for their achievements, but also empowers them to expand their influence, strengthen networks, create opportunities for others and inspire future generations.
She said that across the government, business, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, professional services and community leadership sectors, women continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience, determination and leadership capabilities.
