The ASEAN and Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation (COSTI), the U.S. government through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and UL Research Institutes announced the finalists for the 2023 Underwriters Laboratories-ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women.
The finalists will compete for the UL Research Institutes’ sponsored awards of USD $12,500 for the winner and USD $5,000 for the runner-up in each competition category. In the mid-career scientist category are Dr. Juliana Haji Zaini of Brunei Darussalam, Dr. Noor Titan Putri of Indonesia, Dr. Nofri Yenita Dahlan of Malaysia, Dr. Charlle L. Sy of the Philippines, Dr. Lili Zhang of Singapore and Dr. Nguyen Thi Yen Lien of Vietnam.
The finalists in the senior scientist category include Dr. Nu Rhahida Arini of Indonesia, Dr. Norasikin Ahmad Ludin of Malaysia, Dr. Hla Nu Phyu of Myanmar, Dr. Maria Natalia R. Dimaano of the Philippines, Prof. Madhavi Srinivasan of Singapore, and Dr. Pimpa Limthongkul of Thailand are contenders in the senior scientist category.
With the theme, Electrification, the competition recognizes the notable work of ASEAN women scientists to create electricity using renewable or clean sources of energy in a way that brings economic benefits and protects the environment. Their innovation has the potential to directly impact more than 662 million people currently living in Southeast Asia.
Now in its ninth year, the Science Prize for Women underscores the importance of women’s contributions to improving society in sustainable ways through their expertise in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) research.
In the next stage, USAID, Underwriters Laboratories, COSTI, and the ASEAN Secretariat will narrow the field to four regional finalists, who will deliver research presentations in October to determine award recipients.
Chair of the ASEAN COSTI 2023 and Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications of Brunei Darussalam Mohammad Nazri Mohammad Yusof said, “My warmest congratulations to all of the finalists. Their groundbreaking work in harnessing electrification as a renewable energy source sets a remarkable example for sustainable development. Your innovation will pave the way for a greener future in our region.”
