KS Jomo named national academic personality

PUTRAJAYA: Economist KS Jomo was announced as the 12th national academic figure at the National Academic Awards ceremony held here last night.

The award was presented by Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who chaired the annual awards ceremony.

Jomo also won RM 200,000 in cash, as well as a trophy and a certificate.

Jomo, 66, formerly assistant secretary-general for economic development at the United Nations, is an expert in political economy development, particularly in the Southeast Asian region.

The National Academic Figure Award is awarded to engaged, fully engaged academics actively contributing to the discovery and development of knowledge, wealth creation, and the fulfillment of the aspirations of the tertiary institution as a vehicle for national development.

Juan Joon Ching, from Universiti Malaya, received the most promising university award, given to wealthy university students under 40 years of age.

In his speech, Mahathir expressed the hope that the awards would motivate their laureates to pursue their excellence, while establishing a benchmark to follow for others.

"Without their support, I think we can not train an educated generation that is par excellence, but also train balanced individuals for the development and progress of the country," he said.