ACADEMIA extends beyond the lecture hall, with research playing a key role in advancing knowledge and driving innovation.
For UCSI University Distinguished Chair Prof Dr Ooi Keng Boon, longstanding contributions to business information systems, industrial management, digital transformation and information systems have recently earned him recognition from the European Academy of Sciences (EurASc).
He was elected as a Non-European Fellow in the academy’s social sciences and humanities division, becoming the only Malaysian scholar to hold the distinction, according to records maintained by the EurASc secretariat.
Prof Ooi’s research focuses on leveraging digital technologies via data analytics and management innovation to enhance organisational performance, sustainability capabilities and decision-making effectiveness.
“This recognition is especially meaningful to me, and it motivates me to continue pursuing research that advances digital innovation, responsible management and societal impact,” he said in an Aug 6 press release.
Under the fellowship, he will join more than 800 scientists from around the world across nine disciplinary divisions.
The recognition follows Prof Ooi’s election as a fellow of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) early this year, when he became the first academic from a Malaysian private university in the fields of economic and social sciences, humanities and arts to receive the honour.
He was also one of only five Malaysians elected to the TWAS Class of 2026, joining 1,493 scientists from 112 countries who hold the lifetime title of TWAS Fellow.
The feat was recognised in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) on July 15.
Prof Ooi, who is a fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia, said international recognition is within reach for Malaysian students and young researchers, if they are willing to put in the hard work.
He encouraged aspiring researchers, particularly those in the social sciences and humanities, to pursue impactful research without doubting their ability to succeed.
“Research excellence can come from both private and public universities.
“With dedication, consistency and passion, it is possible to reach the international stage,” he said at the MBOR certificate presentation ceremony.
Prof Ooi, who is also director of UCSI’s Centre for Business Informatics and Industrial Management, said he will continue promoting high-impact, policy-relevant research.
“I also want to mentor younger researchers, encourage more interdisciplinary and international collaboration, and help strengthen the varsity’s position as a private university that can contribute meaningfully to Malaysia and the wider global academic community,” he said.
Prof Ooi’s accolade also secured UCSI University a place in the MBOR as the first private university in the country to have a TWAS Fellow among its academic staff.
Congratulating Prof Ooi, UCSI president and vice-chancellor Emerita Prof Datuk Dr Siti Hamisah Tapsir said the achievement was especially meaningful as it coincided with the university’s 40th anniversary.
“All of us could not be prouder of Prof Ooi’s milestone.
“His achievement shows what can be accomplished through dedication, perseverance and a commitment to excellence.
“It also reflects the strength of our academic community, the quality of our research and the contributions our scholars are making beyond our campus and our country,” she said during her speech.
UCSI University Council chairman and founder Datuk Peter Ng was also present at the ceremony held at the varsity’s Kuala Lumpur campus.
