By Colly Wong @datukdatoato.com
Malaysia is a country of rich cultural heritage and diversity. Their tradition of conferring titles to certain people has deep roots in their society. As such, honorary titles like Datuk and Dato’, granted to certain individuals, hold profound significance. These designations carry recognition and prestige because only a person who has contributed greatly to their communities, in their profession, and Malaysia as a nation, can be conferred these honorifics by the federal government or state rulers.
Becoming a Datuk or Dato’ is a status symbol in the nation and whoever is granted these are surely people who are worthy of the respect and accolade. They have invested their time, energy, and resources to provide services to the Malaysian people, whether in business, community service, arts, academia, or politics, amongst others.
Most of these prominent individuals hold positions of influence across different sectors in the Malaysian society, in the civil area, government and politics, and business. As such, they are often seen heavily involved in benevolent community service and activities in the nation. They may be people who are behind development projects, foundations, and other charitable organizations whose main objective is to give back to the country.
Moreover, they are also well-represented in various institutional bodies like cultural organizations, educational institutions, corporate boards, and government advisory councils, hence the weighty clout throughout the sectors. They are truly leaders and notable influencers in moving Malaysia’s trajectory of development.
Though this group of Datuk’s and Dato’s form a considerable part of the social fabric of Malaysia, they mostly stay within the limits of their own state, particularly the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor regions. They are nevertheless willing and able to extend their time and expertise outside of these locations, if and when given the chance.
However, the reality is, there wasn’t a platform or an enabling vehicle, for all the Datuk’s and Dato’s to network or join forces and contribute to the society on the national level. These may be by way of charitable projects and other philanthropic activities, which they achieve in their respective states but are yet to be brought to a bigger stage. They needed a cohesive and regulatory body that will allow them to continue to work towards Malaysia’s cultural richness, social progress, and economic development as they form a collaborative alliance.
The Majlis Datuk Dato’ Malaysia or MDDM was borne out of this need. On May 4, 2021, MDDM, was duly registered with the Registrar of Societies, as a council of all legally recognized Datuk’s and Dato’s as per Malaysian Law, Act 787 of 2017. Membership is open to all PJN/PSD/PMW conferred Datuk’s by the Agung as well as State Dato’s conferred by the Sultans and Governors of Malaysia.
The founding of MDDM also addressed the issue on the existence of illegal and scrupulous societies, unregistered with the governing bodies, and claiming to represent Datuk’s and Dato’s who are not recognized by the country. This act is against Malaysian Law, passed by the Parliament under Act 787 and gazetted in 2017. Moreover, the number of people who fell victim to scams by these fake Datuk’s and Dato’s grew and continued to mar the testimonies of the real ones.
Thankfully, the YB Home Minister desired enforcement of the laws surrounding these cases, to be stricter and more rigid and gain back what was tarnished by all the illegalities. He was credited to have recommended the creation of an all-inclusive body, on a national level, to tackle such need.
Consequently, when MDDM was established, membership application was made very stringent and the vetting process highly rigorous to make sure that prospective members are legally recognized Datuk’s and Dato’s. Moreso, this process was to guarantee that the institution that is MDDM will be able to allow its members to enjoy the legitimacy of their status, bearing the honorifics worthy of all their dedication, devotion and selfless service to Malaysia and its people. They can hold their heads high and not worry about people questioning their titles.
Members of the MDDM are genuine recipients of the Datuk and Dato’ honorifics and are listed in the national database and confirmed by their respective state’s Secretary’s Bahagian Protocol. The website of MDDM (www.mddm.org.my) will provide details and a portrait snapshot of every duly registered member and anyone can verify their status and membership to the council.
Its founding members include President Datuk Awalan Abdul Aziz, Vice President Datuk Iskandar bin Datuk Abdul Malik, Secretary General Datuk Samson David Maman, Treasurer Datuk Josephine Anne, seven EXCO members, all bearing the Datuk title. The EXCO members for 2023-2025 comprise the President, 3 Vice Presidents, the Secretary General and the Assistant Secretary General, 1 Treasury General and the Assistant Treasurer General, 10 EXCO members, and 2 auditors.
All these noteworthy people, with the MDDM regular members, work to accomplish their prestigious group’s intended purpose. They may also form special committees inside the council to facilitate certain tasks such as legal affairs, sports and recreation, education and technology, membership rewards, and many others.
In his address to MDDM, President Datuk Awalan Abdul Aziz reiterated the council’s objectives — to strengthen friendship and understanding among all Datuk and Dato’, create an identity in line with the recognition awarded, build a platform for economic networking amongst the members, plan and implement certain activities to help the less fortunate and promote the concept of a Compassionate Society, acquire and develop assets belonging to MDDM, and promote the spirit of patriotism and defend the principles of Rukun Negara.
Through all these, the vision of MDDM is to “be an authoritative national organization that mobilizes the resources of its members from among the recipients of the Federal and State Honorary Awards who carry legal titles; and play a role in preserving the sanctity and sovereignty of the institutions of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Malay Rulers, and Yang di-Pertua Negeri in Malaysia,” is championed and will continue to be in the years to come. The pride of the nation of Malaysia through these notable individuals, bearing the honorary titles of Datuk and Dato,’ will consistently be upheld by MDDM’s legitimate and genuinely philanthropic members.
If you are eligible to apply as a member of this prestigious organization, or know of anyone who is a likely candidate, please feel free to endorse by visiting the website of MDDM (www.mddm.org.my), browse through the wealth of information provided, and fill out an application.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website. Please consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to your situation.
