Datuk Dr. Choo Yuen May - 2014 | Merdeka Award

The sky is the limit if you put your heart and soul in your endeavors. My advice is to never give up but believe in yourself. It is important to keep in mind that failure is the stepping stone for success. Fear of failure is the major impediment to success. Successful people fail and make mistakes but they do not give up. You should analyse your failure and move on to success eventually by persevering. More importantly, we learn from our failures.

Datuk Dr. Choo Yuen May

Recipient of Outstanding Contribution to Science, Technology & Innovation 2014

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A Sustainable Science Revolution in the Palm Oil Landscape

In the realm of scientific innovation and leadership, Datuk Dr. Choo Yuen May stands as a beacon of excellence, dedicating 32 years to the advancement of the palm oil industry.

Her journey, starting with secondary education in Ipoh and culminating in her role as the Director-General of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), reflects a commitment to pioneering research and sustainable practices.
Through her research on palm oil, she developed processes to address its low-temperature limitations, leading to commercial success with three plants in Malaysia. Dr. Choo's inventions, including eco-friendly palm-based degreaser INXBIO, monoglycerides for food and non-food applications, and palm bio briquettes, significantly impacted Malaysia's oil palm industry.

As a scientist, Dr. Choo’s research has successfully translated into marketplace success. Alongside her professional endeavours, she actively contributes to sustainability and climate change efforts in the palm oil industry, co-formulating the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil Standard in 2013.

In the laboratory - tailoring research to address global problems

From Academia to Palm Oil Industry Pioneer

Dr. Choo's educational journey began with secondary school in Ipoh, followed by a BSc and MSc from the University of Waikato, New Zealand, in 1978 and 1979.

After a stint as a lecturer at Universiti Sains Malaysia, she joined the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) in 1982, aiming to elevate her research skills in the unexplored realm of palm-based science.

Her pursuit of knowledge led to a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Malaya in 1987 and an Executive MBA from the Asian Institute of Management. Dr. Choo's focus on novel manufacturing technologies for the palm-based industry became the cornerstone of her illustrious career.

These additional qualifications equipped Dr. Choo with the necessary tools and expertise to tackle the challenges and complexities of the palm-based industry. Her focus on developing innovative manufacturing technologies became a defining characteristic of her career, setting her apart as a leading figure in the field.

Dr. Choo with YB Dato’ Ar Wan Mohammad Khair-il Anuar Wan Ahmad, Chairman of MPOB, Professor John Andrews, Pro-Chancellor of University of South Wales and Professor Julie Lyndon, Vice Chancellor of University of South Wales - Receiving the Honorary Doctorate of Science from the University of South Wales- an endorsement of excellence

Green Processes and Industry Impact

Dr. Choo's research thrust centred on developing efficient and green processes for the palm-based industry. Her work spans the production and evaluation of first and second-generation palm biofuels, palm aviation fuel and palm phytonutrients.

Notably, she pioneered the development of winter-grade palm biodiesel, addressing its limitations in temperate climates.
Her innovations, including the commercialisation of low pour point palm biodiesel, normal grade palm biodiesel plants and carotene-enriched Red Palm Oil, have transformed the industry. Dr. Choo's patented processes retain valuable phytonutrients, contributing to the sustainable growth of Malaysia's oil palm industry.

In alignment with the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP), Dr. Choo assumed stewardship of seven of the eight-point projects (EPPs) for oil palm under the ETP. Her vision extends beyond innovation, encompassing sustainability and climate change. She played a pivotal role in formulating the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) Standard, emphasising reduced greenhouse gas emissions and life cycle assessments.

Beyond her role at MPOB, Dr. Choo actively engages with the Malaysian Invention and Design Society (MINDS), fostering curiosity and creativity. Her dedication to sustainability, climate change and innovation has earned her international recognition, including an Honourary Doctorate of Science from the University of South Wales.

A Visionary Leader Shaping the Future

As the current Director-General of MPOB, Datuk Dr. Choo Yuen May has not only shaped the scientific landscape of the palm oil industry, but also propelled Malaysia to the forefront of sustainable and innovative practices. Her impact resonates nationally and internationally, embodying excellence, dedication and transformative leadership.

Dr. Choo's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of researchers and industry leaders, ensuring the continued success and sustainability of the palm oil industry.

Dr. Choo with her mother - a portrait of love and family value

Disclaimer:
The information in this award recipient's profile is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the time the award was presented. Any subsequent changes, updates, or developments in the individual's life or achievements may not be reflected in this profile.

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