First lady of Malaysian theatre wins award for pioneering country's performing arts scene

What makes Faridah stand out is that she uses the stage as a platform to raise awareness about gender equality, human rights and environmental conservation.

Known as the First Lady of Malaysian theatre, Datuk Dr Faridah Merican recently received the 2024 Merdeka Award in Education and Community for pioneering Malaysia’s performing arts scene and driving social-cultural awareness.

“As long as I have strength in my body and will in my heart, I’ll continue to teach, produce, direct and act, in the hope that one day, Malaysia can stand proud alongside its neighbours in the world of education and arts,” pledges the 85-year-old Faridah, who has almost seven decades’ experience in acting, directing and production.