USM prof wins Unesco award for contributions to ocean science
GEORGE TOWN: Malaysian marine scientist Professor Datuk Dr Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, who is also the director of the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (Cemacs) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), has once again made headlines internationally by being awarded the prestigious Anton Bruun Medal.
USM said on Thursday (July 3) that this is the highest international recognition in the field of ocean science, acknowledging Tan's dedication to ocean and marine research, thereby elevating the name of USM and Malaysia on the global stage.
"The prestigious award was presented to Tan in conjunction with the 33rd Session of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) Assembly under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco), in Paris recently.
"This recognition not only reflects Tan's excellence in the field of marine ecosystem management and conservation but also proves USM's capability as a leading higher education institution in world-class research," the statement said.
In conjunction with the medal conferment, Tan also delivered the prestigious Anton Bruun Memorial Lecture titled "Co-Generating Ocean Solutions: Empowering Coastal Communities through Science and Policy Integration".
According to USM, in Tan's lecture, she emphasised the critical need for science to be utilised for the well-being of all humanity, not merely for the scientific community. She also urged the implementation of a comprehensive approach that includes all levels of society in sustainable ocean governance.
The statement noted that Tan stressed that science connects humans, and humans are connected to nature. She called for cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration to ensure inclusive and implementable ocean solutions, with people at the core of every effort.
"As a leader in community-based marine conservation and sustainable aquaculture, Tan also shared success stories resulting from her collaborations with coastal communities in Malaysia, where science has been humanized and created tangible impact and value, translated through increased income, gender empowerment, and continuous ecosystem care," it said.
The statement said that from oyster farming initiatives to eco-youth entrepreneurship, Tan also emphasised the importance of prioritising people, delivering information concisely and clearly, and impactful communication.
Tan's practical approach, rooted in local culture and knowledge transfer, has garnered global attention as an effective and inclusive model for ocean action, according to USM.
The Anton Bruun Medal is awarded to individuals who have made important and significant contributions to the advancement of earth solid studies, physical and chemical oceanography, meteorology, and marine biology, in conjunction with the biennial IOC Assembly.
The Anton Bruun Medal also recognises individuals' outstanding contributions in advancing marine science.
This award is not only an acknowledgment of Tan's decades of dedication in marine science and coastal community development but also symbolises Malaysia's growing prominent role in the global ocean agenda under the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. - Bernama
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