UTAR is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Dr Hew Jun Jie from the Faculty of Business and Finance (FBF) for winning the prestigious Malaysia Research Star Award in the Researchers Cluster category. The award was presented by the Ministry of Higher Education on 13 February 2025 at Putrajaya Marriott Hotel. The award acknowledges researchers who have made significant contributions to their fields through high-impact publications and ground-breaking studies.
Dr Hew (second from left) receiving the award
The Malaysia Research Star Award is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the country’s academic and research community. Organised in collaboration with Elsevier and Clarivate Analytics, the award highlights researchers whose work has achieved global recognition and high citation rates. The award encompasses several categories, including International Research Collaboration, Research and Innovation Excellence, Frontier Researcher, High Impact Paper, and Hot Review Paper. By honouring outstanding contributions across various disciplines, the award serves as a driving force to inspire Malaysian researchers to maintain high-quality and impactful research.
From left: UTAR Vice President (R&D and Commercialisation) Prof Ts Dr Faidz bin Abd Rahman, Dr Hew and Division of Strategy and Performance Measurement Director Prof Dr Zuraidah binti Abd Manaf
Dr Hew expressed immense excitement and gratitude upon receiving the award. “First of all, I’m really excited and happy to receive this award from the Ministry because this is a first for UTAR. I cannot express how excited I am in words. I am really flattered to have this award with me. I’m beyond words,” he shared.
Reflecting on his research journey, Dr Hew recounted his early days as a student and how his passion for research gradually developed. “During my degree and PhD studies, I was deeply intrigued by the process of conducting research and publishing findings. The idea of contributing new knowledge to my field was truly inspiring. After I graduated, UTAR gave me the opportunity to join as a tutor and continue my master’s studies. From there, my interest in research grew steadily. It has been a decade since my first SSCI journal publication in 2015, and I am more passionate about research than ever,” he said.
Dr Hew also credited UTAR for its unwavering support throughout his academic journey. “I would say that it’s because of UTAR that I was able to pursue my research interests and receive unconditional support along the way. Research is a long process that requires patience and perseverance, and I am grateful for the opportunities provided by the university,” said Dr Hew.
The Malaysia Research Star Award serves as an encouragement for researchers across the country to continue striving for excellence and innovation. Dr Hew’s achievement not only enhances UTAR’s reputation in research but also inspires fellow academics and students to pursue impactful studies that contribute to the global knowledge base.
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