72 and still contributing...

Rare gem: Prof Looi is one of only five people who have had the honour of being conferred the distinguished professor title.

TO be accorded the distinguished professor title in Malaysia is not a common occurrence. In fact, it is so rare that only five people have had the honour of receiving the award, which is granted to top academics in recognition of their scholarly and professional contributions.

Among them is Prof Datuk Dr Looi Lai Meng, who will be turning 72 this year. In 2010, she was among three inaugural recipients being conferred the title, after having been promoted to the rank of senior professor in 2003.