Distinguished Professor Datuk Dr. Looi Lai Meng - 2016

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Distinguished Professor Datuk Dr. Looi Lai Meng

Recipient of Outstanding Contribution to Science, Technology & Innovation 2016

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A Legacy of Firsts in Pathology

Professor Datuk Dr. Looi Lai Meng is renowned globally for her expertise in amyloid disease, cancer pathology, and renal pathology, and is a holder of many firsts in the field of pathology

Her legacy encompasses elevating pathology's role in managing cancer, kidney disease, and transplant patients.

At 36 years of age (1986), Professor Looi is the longest-serving diagnostic renal pathologist in Malaysia and she was one of the youngest holders of a University Chair at University of Malaya. Professor Looi was the first to recognise the occurrence of immunotactoid glomerulonephritis in Malaysia, having earlier mooted a link between amyloid and tactoidal proteins through her editorial in the prestigious Journal of Pathology (UK) in 1993. She was also instrumental in formulating the first National (Malaysian) consensus on the histopathological reporting of breast cancer in 1994.

Planting the seeds of science

Born in Bentong, Pahang in 1950, Professor Looi developed an interest in science and medicine from a young age while she accompanied her father, a hospital assistant at the time, to work at a small hospital in Bentong.

Her parents played a crucial role in shaping her passion for medicine and public service, with her father's dedication to helping others serving as a profound inspiration. This early exposure and influence laid the foundation for Professor Looi's future in the medical field.

Unlocking medical mysteries through trailblazing disease research

Professor Looi’s doctoral research on amyloidosis, revealing novel patterns distinct from Western populations, significantly contributed to understanding variations in disease presentations.

Her research on cancer prognostic and predictive factors have direct practical utility, influencing the development of more logistically-sound and cost-effective laboratory assessment of cancer patients in Malaysia.

Professor Looi has successfully secured funds exceeding RM2.4 million for her research projects. With a prolific academic career, she has authored over 380 publications, including more than 180 original peer-reviewed scientific papers, accumulating over 2,200 citations.

Additionally, she has actively participated in the scholarly community, delivering over 600 presentations at scientific meetings, seminars, and workshops, including more than 400 guest lectures.

Professor Looi's influential publications on renal glomerulonephritis patterns are crucial references in Malaysia. Her practical insights, as part of a multinational team, played a pivotal role in formulating the 2004 revised Classification of Lupus Nephritis, replacing the WHO classification. This seminal work, with over 600 citations, sponsored by the International Society of Nephrology and the Renal Pathology Society, has had a substantial global impact.

Leadership in pathology

Professor Looi’s commitment to advancing pathology extended to educational reforms, where she internationalised medical specialist training and elevated specialist training to consultant level.

In 1999, she founded the College of Pathologists under the Academy of Medicine Malaysia, uniting the pathology profession. Professor Looi's advocacy for legislative improvements in pathology practices culminated in the Pathology Laboratory Act 2007 and the establishment of the National Accreditation Scheme for Pathology Laboratories.

Her efforts extended to international collaborations, scientific workshops, and projects promoting scientific writing and research methodology. Professor Looi's leadership roles in prestigious organisations, such as the World Association of Societies of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, reflect her global impact.

Acknowledging her exceptional contributions, Professor Looi received the inaugural Profesor Ulung Negara (National Distinguished Professor) title in 2010, becoming the first medical scientist and woman to receive this honor.

International accolades, including the Distinguished Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia, ASEAN Outstanding Scientist and Technologist Award, and Gold-Headed Cane from the World Association of Societies of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, showcase her global recognition.

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.

Other Recipients

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Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Salleh Mohd Nor

Outstanding Contribution to Education and Community

Tan Sri Lakshmanan Krishnan

Outstanding Scholastic and Academic Achievement

Professor Dato’ Ir Dr. Wan Ramli Wan Daud