Kuala lumpur: Four notable Malaysian graduates from UK universities were celebrated for their impactful contributions in various fields at the British Council's Study UK Alumni Awards Malaysia 2026.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the British Council, in its seventh edition of the awards in Malaysia, acknowledged the achievements of Dr Rebecca Tay Sook Hui in Business and Innovation, Dr Hor Chee Peng in Science and Sustainability, Matthew Tan Yi Jian in Culture, Creativity and Sport, and Tan Shi Min in Social Action.
Dr Rebecca Tay, an alumna of the University of Nottingham, was recognized for her work on a national roadmap for pharmacogenomics implementation. Her efforts are aimed at making genetic testing accessible to all, inspired by personal loss. Dr Tay stated that this recognition is a platform to promote life-saving genetic testing.
Dr Hor, a graduate from the University of Edinburgh, was honored for his leadership in pandemic preparedness and response during COVID-19. His approach was informed by the skills he acquired in the UK, and he is notably the first from the Ministry of Health to win the Science and Sustainability award.
Matthew Tan, educated at the University of Oxford, was awarded for his contributions to film education. His documentary, 'Partition,' received international acclaim, aligning with his goal to elevate Malaysian stories globally. His work bridges creative practice and research, grounded in skills developed in the UK.
Tan Shi Min, who studied at University College London and Plymouth Marjon University, was recognized for her innovation in education through the Wheel of Learning. This tool has significantly impacted rural education in Malaysia, and she plans to expand its reach through the 'Projek Anak Malaysia' initiative.
British Council Malaysia director Jazreel Goh highlighted that this year's winners exemplify the powerful intersection of talent, purpose, and opportunity, making significant impacts globally. British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma CMG praised the awardees as testaments to the transformative power of UK education.
The Study UK Alumni Awards, biennial in nature, focus on individuals driving economic growth, cultural and athletic excellence, sustainable solutions, and societal empowerment. This year's edition saw over 1,000 applicants narrowed down to 20 finalists, showcasing the influence of UK alumni in Malaysia.
By celebrating these achievements, the awards emphasize the importance of a UK education in preparing graduates for leadership in a dynamic global environment.