PENANG, 17 December 2020 – Four Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) academicians have been recognised as Malaysia’s Top Research Scientists. 

The announcement on the four, being among the thirty outstanding scientists to be acknowledged as the 2020 Top Research Scientists Malaysia (TRSM), was made recently by the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM). 

They are: 

1. Professor Dato’ Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai [School of Biological Sciences/Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies, (CEMACS)],  
2. Professor Dr. Sreeramanan Subramaniam (School of Biological Sciences),  
3. Professor Ir. Dr. Nor Ashidi Mat Isa (School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering), and 
4. Professor Dr. Zulkifli Ahmad (School of Material and Mineral Resources Engineering). 

The recognition is given by ASM to researchers who have made a strong impact at the national and international levels. This is in line with its focus on fostering a culture of excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI). 

Those given the recognition are leading research scientists who have been actively involved in national research and innovation to generate new knowledge, making new discoveries, creating value-added opportunities and translating their research into meaningful and impactful outcomes that can significantly contribute to the socio-economic transformation of the nation. 

The candidates selected are those who have been active in conducting research activities in the last five years and having at least 10 years cumulative contribution towards the progress of STI in Malaysia.  

President of ASM, Professor Datuk Dr. Asma Ismail said that the recognition given through TRSM, launched in 2012, serves as an avenue for ASM to identify outstanding Malaysian research scientists with a pioneering mindset that could drive the country forward to an innovation-led economy into and beyond the next decade. 

“The TRSM recipients are regarded as excellent role models who could become mentors to the leaders and the next generation in moving the STI agenda of the nation ahead,” she added.  

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Infographic: Muhammad Indera Azhar@Ishak