Emeritus Professor Dr. Jomo Kwame Sundaram

Recipient of Outstanding Scholastic and Academic Achievement 2024

Health, Science and Technology

Dato' Professor Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman

Recipient for Year 2022

Something that is worth doing is often tough, but the rewards can be big.

A Leading Voice in Economic Policy

Jomo’s influence extends far beyond Malaysia’s borders.

After the historic 2018 Malaysian general election, he was appointed as one of the five members of the Council of Eminent Persons. The council advised the new government on economic and financial matters during the transition. From 2019, he continued his advisory role as part of the Economic Action Council (EAC), chaired by then Prime
Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Throughout his career, Jomo has authored over 50 books, edited more than 50 volumes, and written numerous academic papers and media articles. His prolific output reflects his deep commitment to advancing socioeconomic development and sharing his insights with a global audience. Besides writing for other media, he has contributed over 400 opinion-editorials to the Inter-Press Service, covering a wide range of topics related to development, globalisation, human rights, and environmental issues.

1972, Family photo with father SK Sundaram, mother Chua Sock Liang, grandmother Kuppamal.

Revitalizing Global Economic Policy at the United Nations

One highlight of Jomo’s career was his tenure as Chief Economist of the United Nations, where he served as Assistant Secretary- General for Economic Development from 2005 to 2012.

During this time, he revitalised the UN’s presence in global economic policy discourses, particularly in response to the 2008 global financial crisis. As a member of the Stiglitz Commission, he helped shape government responses to the crisis, advocating policies that promoted financial stability and economic recovery. .

Jomo also served as honorary Research Coordinator for the G-24 Intergovernmental Group on International Monetary Affairs
and Development. He was also asked to serve as advisor to the President of the 63rd United Nations General Assembly, Father Miguel d’Escoto. Thus, while at the UN, he helped shape the global response to the financial crisis.

Jomo presenting remarks at the DPI Millennium Development Goals Gap Launch.

Eradicating Poverty and Malnutrition

Jomo’s dedication to creating a more equitable and prosperous world is further evidenced by his work on eradicating poverty and hunger.

He played a key role in facilitating an outcome for the 2nd UN Financing for Development Conference in Doha in 2008. He convened the 2nd International Conference on Nutrition in Rome in 2014, underscoring his commitment to addressing global malnutrition and associated challenges. This plan promotes coordinated efforts across key areas, including sustainable food systems, universal healthcare coverage, and social protection.

Jomo presenting remarks at the DPI Millennium Development Goals Gap Launch.

Championing Sustainable Development

Jomo’s contributions to global development are perhaps best exemplified by his role in formulating the UN’s Global Green New Deal.

During the 2008-2009 global financial crisis, the UN recommended policies to achieve economic recovery, eliminate poverty, enhance ecological sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition, Jomo contributed to the UN General Assembly adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. These goals, which serve as a comprehensive framework for sustainable development worldwide, were later integrated into Malaysian five year plan documents and various medium to long term vision statements. His intellectual leadership played a significant role in the transition from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the more comprehensive, robust and legitimate SDGs.

Scholarly Excellence

Jomo’s contributions to economic thought have been widely recognized and celebrated.

He was the first scholar not from the US or Japan to receive the Abe Fellowship in 1993, a testament to his groundbreaking research and thought leadership. In 2007, he was awarded the Wassily Leontief Prize for “Advancing the Frontiers of Economic Thought”.

His influential writings cover a wide range of topics, from international economic issues to Malaysian development challenges. Some of his notable works include Rents, Rent-Seeking and Economic Development, Globalization Versus Development, The New Development Economics and After The Storm: Crisis, Recovery and Sustaining Development in East Asia. His deep insights into Malaysia’s economic and social landscape are reflected in titles such as A Question of Class, Privatizing Malaysia, Malaysia’s Political Economy and Malaysian Eclipse.

His contributions to socio-economic development, in Malaysia and beyond, are a testament to his intellectual dynamism and commitment to social justice. His work has not only advanced the frontiers of economic thought, but also had tangible impact on policies and development initiatives worldwide.

As a scholar, advisor, and thought leader, Jomo continues to inspire and influence younger generations of economists and policymakers, especially in the Anglophone Global South. He remains unwavering in his dedication to advancing socio-economic development and fostering a more equitable and sustainable future.

Photo with Pope Francis

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

Outstanding Contribution to Education and Community

Dato' Seri Dr. Abdul Samad Mohamed Said

Outstanding Contribution to Science, Technology & Innovation

Tan Sri Dato' Dr. Abu Bakar Suleiman

Outstanding Contribution to Education and Community

Dato' Dr. Faridah Merican