KOTA SAMARAHAN: The Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) roadshow was launched for the first time in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) to encourage a culture of excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI).
The roadshow, which includes Top Research Scientists Malaysia (TRSM) and Young Scientists Network (YSN-ASM), according to Unimas vice-chancellor Professor Dato Dr Kadim Suaidi, would act as a platform to inspire young scientists in their career’s roadmap.
He was confident that TRSM would evolve into a reliable, accurate and comprehensive programme of STI capabilities in the country and highlighted the nation’s talents.
“TRSM is a programme that aims to identify and recognise leading research scientists who are active in research and development in Malaysia. It also acknowledges their contribution and showcase them as experts in their respective fields,” Kadim said the launch of the roadshow at Unimas campus yesterday.
He also said that TRSM would expedite the link of our local scientists with world renowned STI centres through joint collaborative efforts.
Jointly organised by ASM and Unimas, the roadshow through YSN-ASM will also enable young scientists from diverse scientific backgrounds and expertise to interact, coordinate, organise, rise to national and international challenges and be a source of inspiration for future scientists currently in schools and universities.
“It is hoped that through ASM flagship programmes, it can support and contribute to the government’s aspirations to be a developed nation by 2020 through the advancement of STI human capital,” he added.
Speaking to reporters later, Kadim said that Unimas would monitor the progress of their scientists and researchers through the flagship programmes which offer rewards and recognition such as listing in TRSM and the Mahathir Science Award.
He also said that Unimas, in striving towards excellence, is roping in lecturers who are as young as 26 years old.
“Most of them will obtain a PhD when they are in their 30s – a prime age to be dynamic and productive before they turn 40,” he said.
He also said that Unimas would be participating at an exhibition in South Korea to exhibit 15 products which they hope will be able to bag awards and add to their list of recognitions.
Also speaking at the launching ceremony was Unimas Research and Innovation Management Centre director, Mustafa Abdul Rahman. He said that Unimas would be sending 10 to 15 exhibitors and researchers to international and national expos each year.
“During the Malaysian Technology Expo last year, one of our researchers, Associate Prof Dr Nazlina Sha’ari from the Faculty of Applied Collective Arts, bagged the best of the best award by presenting the use of sago wastes for colouring textiles.”
The university also won 10 gold medals from 10 products that were showcased at the British Invention Show. One of the products also won the Romanian Award.