Malaysian Scientists Bag Two Asean Science Awards

BOGOR (INDONESIA), Aug 27 (Bernama) –- Two Malaysian scientists won both categories of the prestigious triennial Asean Science and Technology awards held during the 9th Asean Science and Technology Week which ends here Wednesday. They are Associate Professor Dr Sharifah Rafidah Wan Alwi of the Department of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia; and Professor Dr Harith Ahmad from Universiti Malaya's Department of Physics. Sharifah Rafidah bagged the Asean Young Scientist and Technologist Award while Harith clinched the Asean Outstanding Scientist and Technologist Award. Both received US$10,000 and US$15,000, respectively at an awards presentation ceremony Monday night held in conjunction with the 8th Informal Asean Ministerial Meeting on Science and Technology. (US$1 = RM3.16) Harith was also a recipient of the Merdeka Award in 2010 for his contribution in research on photonics. Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Dr Ewon Ebin, who was also present at the function, said the success of the two scientists demonstrated Malaysia's capability and strength through sustained and inspired efforts in science, technology and innovation (STI) which had continuously received international recognition. "Malaysia is focused on ensuring that we achieve our goals towards the enhancement of societal well-being through science and technology cooperation and STI awareness in particular, with Asean member states. "This success signifies our investment in R&D (research and development) has now yielded positive outcome. "I hope this award will help inspire other Malaysian scientists and researchers to reach their fullest potential in their pursuit of scientific and technological excellence," he said. The Asean Science and Technology Awards is aimed at encouraging and promoting excellence amongst Asean scientists and technologists, as well as strengthen STI cooperation amongst member states. The Asean Young Scientist and Technologist Award is presented to a scientist or technologist who has shown considerable promise, or made substantial contribution to research, development and innovation in the Asean region, whilst the Asean Outstanding Scientist and Technologist Award is presented to a scientist or technologist for outstanding contributions in the scientific and technological field at the national and international level. Meanwhile, Prof Zakri Abdul Hamid, Science Advisor to the Prime Minister, was also named one of the recipients of the Asean Meritorious Service Award, which is given to one nominee from every member state. -- BERNAMA