KUALA LUMPUR: The Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) recently recognised 30 outstanding scientists as the 2020 Top Research Scientists Malaysia (TRSM), in line with its focus on fostering a culture of excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).
The recognition is given to active Malaysian research scientists with outstanding achievements in STI and have been nationally and internationally recognised.
The recipients are leading research scientists who have been actively pushing the boundaries of national research and innovation to generate new knowledge, make discoveries, create value-added opportunities and translate their research into meaningful and impactful outcomes that can significantly contribute to the socio-economic transformation of the nation.
TRSM recipients are role models of excellence who will become mentors to the next generation and leaders to forge ahead with the STI agenda of the nation.
ASM president Professor Datuk Dr Asma Ismail said through TRSM, which was launched in 2012, the academy aspired to identify outstanding Malaysian research scientists who possess pioneer mindsets in order to move the country forward to an innovation-led economy.
"This year has shown us that the innovation model works; that an economy that has its foundation in science, technology and innovation is the way forward. Malaysia needs to build an innovation ecosystem that is holistic, inclusive and addresses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in order to thrive beyond the next decade and safeguard our economy for the betterment of all citizens. An innovation-led economy will also be the recipe for success in the post Covid-19 period and enable the rakyat to enhance their quality of life.
"I look forward to seeing how our TRSM recipients can utilise the newly launched 10-10 Malaysian Science, Technology, Innovation and Economy (MySTIE) Framework to amplify their respective areas of research to the betterment of the nation. The 10-10 MySTIE Framework will provide a systematic approach to transform Malaysia into a knowledge-based economy by linking science, technology and innovation (STI) and the economic development of Malaysia.
"I believe our TRSM recipients will be able to play a key role in strengthening the industry and stakeholders confidence in Malaysia's research and innovation capacity and capability," she said.
As part of the eligibility, the candidate should be actively involved in research activities in the last five years with at least 10 years cumulative contribution towards the progress of STI in Malaysia.
Through its current database of 196 TRSM recipients, the academy aims develop a list of leading research scientists and build a critical mass of leading research scientists.
This will enable TRSM recipients to be referral points for STI linkages at the national and international levels as well as take on a role as advisers in the National STI policy and decision-making process.
For more information about TRSM, call 03-6203 0633 or head to https://www.mytopscientists.org/v3/info/TRSM.aspx