Paris: 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this recognition is the highest international accolade in the field of ocean science, acknowledging Aileen's dedication to ocean and marine research, thereby elevating the name of USM and Malaysia on the global stage. The award was presented to Aileen at the 33rd Session of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) Assembly under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in Paris recently.
In conjunction with receiving the medal, Aileen delivered the Anton Bruun Memorial Lecture titled "Co-Generating Ocean Solutions: Empowering Coastal Communities through Science and Policy Integration." In her lecture, she emphasized the critical need for science to be utilized for the well-being of all humanity, not merely for the scientific community. She urged the implementation of a comprehensive approach that includes all levels of society in sustainable ocean governance.
USM noted that Aileen stressed the idea 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, Aileen also shared success stories 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.
The statement informed that from oyster farming initiatives to eco-youth entrepreneurship, Aileen emphasized the importance of prioritizing people, delivering information concisely and clearly, and impactful communication. Aileen's practical approach, rooted in local culture and knowledge transfer, has garnered global attention as an effective and inclusive model for ocean action.
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 medal also recognizes individuals' outstanding contributions in advancing marine science.
This award is not only an acknowledgment of Aileen's decades of dedication in marine science and coastal community development but also symbolizes Malaysia's growing prominent role in the global ocean agenda under the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.