CYNTHIA Gabriel, founder of the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4), has been nominated for the 2022 International Women of Courage award by the United States Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

Gabriel told The Malaysian Insight that it is an honour to learn of the nomination, a timely one indeed as graft-busting work has become urgent and very challenging.

“We hope this will generate more efforts among Malaysians, especially younger advocates, to join the fight and save this country,” she said.

In a statement today, the US Embassy said the US Secretary of State’s award honours women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in acting to improve the lives of others.

“On International Women’s Day, the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur is proud to honour Cynthia Gabriel, founder of the Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4), as its nominee for the 2022 International Women of Courage Award,” it said.

“Cynthia is a key human rights advocate and anti-corruption leader who has shed light on multiple corruption scandals.

“She has spent her professional life advancing and promoting human rights, good governance, rule of law, anti-corruption, and democratic freedoms by combining her scientific and legal knowledge in her advocacy work,” it said.

The US Embassy said the award is an effort to draw international attention and support to women who have worked persistently to improve their communities and inspire others.

Every year, US diplomatic missions propose a courageous woman from their host nations, and finalists are chosen and confirmed by senior US State Department officials.

Past winners and nominees of the Award in Malaysia include Ambiga Sreenivasan, Susanna Liew, Nisha Ayub, Indira Gandhi and Qyira Yusri. – March 8, 2022.