Khairul Aming: The embodiment of modern chivalry and GC Man of the Year 2024

Khairul Aming leads donation drive for flood victims in Kelantan in November 2024.

Photo credit: IG/khairulaming

You might know him from the cooking videos that brought warmth to millions during COVID's coldest days, or the sambal empire he's built from scratch. But it's what unfolded in those critical hours in Kelantan that revealed the true measure of the man we're proud to name Gentleman's Code Man of the Year 2024.

Within hours of the floods hitting, Khairul demonstrated what modern chivalry looks like in action. His business empire pivoted overnight – warehouses transformed into emergency response centers, delivery networks repurposed into rescue operations, and his massive social media following mobilized into a volunteer army. The results were staggering: 7,000 flood victims aided across 17 locations, 2,000 people in Pasir Mas receiving immediate relief, 1,200 hot meals prepared for those who hadn't eaten in days.

But numbers, impressive as they are, don't tell the human story. It's in the details that true nobility shines: Khairul personally ensuring elderly victims received their medication, comforting children in evacuation centers, and working alongside volunteers in the mud and rain. His actions remind us that true leadership isn't about commanding from comfortable distances – it's about standing shoulder-to-shoulder with those you serve.

Yet his impact extends beyond crisis response. In September 2024, he demonstrated another facet of chivalry by treating his entire staff of 100 to a retreat in Penang. No meetings, no agendas – just pure appreciation. "A man's success," we emphasized, "is measured not by what he gains, but by how many he lifts along his journey."

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with Khairul Aming, during an official visit to Malaysia in September 2024.

Photo credit: IG/khairulaming

When New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon praised his role in elevating Malaysian cuisine globally, Khairul's response was telling. Instead of basking in the spotlight, he redirected attention to the unsung heroes – the farmers, the kitchen staff, the delivery riders who made it all possible. This is the mark of true nobility: the ability to wear success like a loose garment, never letting it restrict your humanity.

Keretapi Sarong 2024: Khairul Aming passionately called for Malaysians to safeguard the nation’s unity.

 Photo credit: IG/khairulaming

His participation in cultural events like the Keretapi Sarong Malaysia Day celebration wasn't mere pageantry – it was a demonstration of his belief that preserving cultural heritage is as crucial as driving economic progress. In an age where tradition often bows to trend, Khairul shows us how to bridge both worlds with grace.

What makes Khairul Aming's story particularly compelling is its relatability. He shows us that nobility isn't about birthright or privilege – it's about choices. Every day, in ways big and small, he chooses to use his influence for impact rather than just influence's sake. His journey proves that modern chivalry isn't about red carpet appearance or grand gestures, but about consistent actions in everyday moments.

"The future belongs to those who understand that greatness isn't in what you own," he shared in our final interview, "but in what you give. It's in how many lives you touch, how many spirits you lift, how many hopes you restore."

Khairul Aming engaging the elderly during the flood in Kelantan in November 2024.

Photo credit: IG/khairulaming

As we crown him Man of the Year 2024, Khairul Aming stands as a beacon for aspiring leaders everywhere. He shows us that in a world often criticized for its materialism and self-interest, there's still room for nobility of spirit. That in an age of digital disconnection, authentic human connection still matters most. That while the trappings of success are seductive, the rewards of service are transformative.

His story challenges each of us to ask: What is our flood? What is our moment to stand up, step forward, and make a difference? Because true gentlemanhood isn't about waiting for perfect conditions or grand occasions – it's about being ready when duty calls, whatever form it takes.

In Khairul Aming, we see the future of gentlemanly conduct: one that combines professional excellence with social responsibility, personal achievement with community upliftment, and modern success with timeless values. He reminds us that while the world may have changed towards attention economy, the core qualities of nobility – courage, compassion, and commitment to others – remain as relevant as ever.

That's not just success. That's legacy. And that's why he's our Man of the Year.