Melaka: At just 28, syariah lawyer Harris Daniel Hermee's dedication to youth development has earned him the top honour in the male individual category at the 2026 Melaka State-level National Youth Awards. Harris said the honour represented a meaningful milestone in his journey of serving young people, volunteering and contributing to the community since coming back to Melaka after completing his studies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Harris expressed that the prestigious honour reflects the dedication of young people whose involvement has extended from local communities to district, state, national, and even international platforms. "Finishing third in last year's competition became a source of encouragement for me to push further and improve my achievements, especially through participation in programmes at national and international levels," he told reporters after the presentation ceremony in Ayer Keroh last night.
Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh officiated the ceremony, which was also attended by state Youth, Sports and NGO Committee chairman Datuk VP Shanmugam. The Islamic studies and law graduate from Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) said joining Gerakan Belia 4B Hang Tuah Jaya marked the beginning of his journey, where he gained opportunities to organise programmes focused on youth empowerment, sports, and volunteerism through partnerships with government agencies and youth groups.
Beyond his involvement in youth organisations, Harris serves as the Youth State Assembly Member for Pengkalan Batu, giving him a platform to champion ideas and drive youth development initiatives within the community.
Meanwhile, primary school teacher SS Mayuri, 30, from Alor Gajah, was named the female category winner and said the recognition has inspired her to continue playing a role in youth and community development. Through her work with the Melaka and Malaysia Tamil Youth Club Council, she focuses on empowering students preparing for SPM through mentoring and motivation programmes, while encouraging community participation through initiatives such as blood donation drives.