USM PENANG, 23 November 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is honoured to acknowledge that one of its researchers, Professor Dr. Mohd Hazwan Hussin, has received the National Young Scientist Award 2025 in the Chemistry category, organised by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI).

This prestigious recognition was conferred for his outstanding contribution in the field of green technology through an innovative project that developed anti-corrosion products derived from palm biomass waste, supporting the nation’s sustainability agenda and green technology initiatives.

Hazwan, 39, from the USM School of Chemical Sciences, expressed his gratitude and pride in receiving the award, noting the highly competitive process with 85 nominations across five categories.

“I believe this recognition will inspire young scientists to advance further in research and produce studies with greater impact,” he said after the award ceremony held on 20 November 2025 in Kuala Lumpur.

He added that the award not only elevates the research conducted at USM but also serves as motivation for the younger generation of scientists to remain competitive at the international level.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed also extended heartfelt congratulations, emphasising that this achievement reflects the university’s strength in nurturing impactful research culture.

“Hazwan’s success is a testament to USM’s commitment to strengthening high-impact research. It not only brings pride to the university but also contributes to the nation’s development through sustainable innovation. USM will continue to support young scientists in reaching global platforms,” he said.

Hazwan possesses an outstanding academic record with more than 200 peer-reviewed publications and an h-index of 41, in addition to receiving international recognition including being named a Top Research Scientist Malaysia and listed among the Top 2% Scientists in the World.

His expertise has also been translated into commercialisation through the development of anticorrosion products, patent registrations, and strategic collaborations with industry partners and international counterparts, thereby strengthening green technology innovation in the country on a broader scale.

The award was presented by the Minister of MOSTI, Chang Lih Kang, who also conferred honours in four other key categories of the National Young Scientist Award 2025.

About the National Young Scientist Award 2025

The National Young Scientist Award (NYSA) was first introduced in 1985 as a platform to honour excellence among young scientists under the age of 40 in the fields of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).

The award aligns with the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2021–2030, which highlights the importance of nurturing local talent to strengthen the country’s research ecosystem.

For 2025, the NYSA featured five main categories: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Medicine, and Engineering. A total of 85 nominations were received from various research institutions and universities nationwide, showcasing highly competitive and promising young researchers.

MOSTI emphasised that the NYSA serves not only as recognition but also as a strategic platform to connect young scientists with industry players and research institutions.

This initiative aims to strengthen collaboration networks, accelerate technological development, and provide opportunities for award recipients to present their research at international forums such as the International Conference on Environment and Life Science (ICELS) and the Sci4Life Conference 2025.

Through this recognition, the NYSA is expected to inspire more young scientists to deliver high-impact research, contributing to the nation’s vision of building a knowledge-based and innovation-driven society.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/ Photos: Prof. ChM. Dr. Mohd Hazwan Hussin, School of Chemical Sciences, USM