UM’s Dr. Lai Chin Wei awarded JCI TOYP 2024 honour

Associate Professor Dr. Lai Chin Wei from the Nanotechnology Catalysis Research Centre (NANOCAT), University of Malaya, has been recognized as one of the Junior Chamber International’s Ten Outstanding Young Persons of the World (JCI TOYP) 2024 awardees. This global accolade, awarded at the JCI World Congress on November 1, celebrates Dr. Lai’s exceptional contributions to academic leadership and innovative research in nanotechnology, making him the sole Malaysian recipient this year.

“This recognition is a testament to my years of dedication to academic research and development,” expressed Dr. Lai. “It is a humbling experience to share the stage with so many inspiring leaders. This honour inspires me to further push the boundaries of nanotechnology research and contribute to global sustainability.”

Since its inception, the JCI TOYP program has highlighted global changemakers, with past recipients including John F. Kennedy, Jackie Chan, and Henry Kissinger.

Pioneering Sustainable Innovations

Dr. Lai’s research at NANOCAT focuses on photocatalysis technology, a revolutionary method that uses light energy to drive chemical reactions. His work addresses urgent environmental challenges, including water and air purification, sustainable energy production, and pollution management.

“Dr. Lai’s achievements exemplify NANOCAT’s dedication to bridging the gap between academia and industry,” remarked Prof. Dr. Mohd Rafie Bin Johan, Director of NANOCAT. “This global recognition affirms the impact of our research and inspires us to continue driving technological advancements for a sustainable future.”

Notably, Dr. Lai’s innovations in cost-effective photocatalysis nanomaterials played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they were lauded internationally for their sterilization and environmental health applications. These technologies also have practical uses in creating self-cleaning surfaces and reducing industrial pollutants.

A Legacy of Academic Excellence

Dr. Lai’s contributions to science have earned him global recognition. He has been listed among Stanford University’s Top 2% Scientists for five consecutive years and received several prestigious awards, including the APEC Science Prize for Innovation, Research, and Education (ASPIRE) 2023 and the National Young Scientist Award 2019 by the Ministry of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment, and Climate Change (MESTECC).

At the institutional level, NANOCAT has also garnered accolades for its role in advancing green chemistry and sustainable environmental solutions. As a High Centre of Excellence (HiCoE), NANOCAT fosters innovation through collaborative efforts spanning academia, industry, and government.

NANOCAT’s Vision for a Sustainable Future

The Nanotechnology Catalysis Research Centre at the University of Malaya stands at the forefront of impactful scientific discovery. With a mission to address global challenges like environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, NANOCAT focuses on areas such as green chemistry and advanced nanomaterials.

By collaborating across sectors, the centre translates groundbreaking research into practical solutions, addressing critical needs in industries ranging from air purification to renewable energy. As Dr. Lai’s achievements demonstrate, NANOCAT remains committed to driving innovation for a sustainable future.