IN recognition of her trailblazing research in sustainable engineering, Curtin University Malaysia deputy dean of research and development Assoc Prof Dr Tan Inn Shi has been awarded the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Young Engineer Award 2025.
The award – one of the highest honours for early-career engineers in Malaysia – was presented by IEM president Prof Dr Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin during the institution’s 66th annual general meeting in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, on April 19.
Tan, a chemical engineer by training, was celebrated for her groundbreaking work in renewable energy technologies, especially in the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and biodegradable plastics derived from agricultural waste – advancements that are set to transform two of Malaysia’s most environmentally challenging sectors: aviation and plastics.
Her SAF research, conducted through Curtin Malaysia’s renewable energy research division, focuses on converting algae and palm biomass into low-emission aviation fuel, a game-changing development that supports Malaysia’s push for carbon neutrality and could redefine the future of flight in the region.
In parallel, Tan is leading efforts to develop bioplastics from macroalgae biomass waste, offering an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics and addressing one of the nation’s most pressing environmental threats: plastic pollution.
“This award is more than a personal milestone; it is a win for sustainable engineering.
“Our research bridges academia and industry to tackle real-world problems, from decarbonising air travel to reducing our dependence on petrochemical-based plastics,” she said in a press release dated June 5.
Congratulating Tan, Curtin Malaysia interim pro-vice-chancellor, president and chief executive Prof Vincent Lee described her work as exemplifying impact-driven, solutions-oriented research.
“The recognition by IEM is a proud moment for the university and a strong signal of Sarawak’s growing leadership in green technology,” he said.
The IEM Young Engineer Award recognises outstanding engineers under 40 who have made significant contributions to the profession through technical excellence, innovation and societal impact.
Tan’s recognition places her among the country’s most promising engineering minds and highlights the critical role of research institutions in driving Malaysia’s sustainability agenda.
With this national recognition, Tan expressed hope of inspiring more young engineers – especially women – to pursue careers at the forefront of sustainability science.
