KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8 — Malaysian professor Teo Soo-Hwang has been awarded an Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) award by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions in medical research, the British High Commission said today.
Teo, who is the chief executive of Cancer Research Malaysia, a non-profit cancer research body, was given the award during an investiture ceremony performed by British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Vicki Treadell at the Commissioner’s residence here yesterday.
Teo was recognised for her scientific leadership in developing research collaboration between Malaysia and United Kingdom in improving the diagnosis and treatment for various types of cancers.
The Cambridge University graduate was the only Malaysian among 221 Honorary OBE recipients in the 2018 New Year’s Honours List, the commission said.
“Professor Teo’s work has fundamentally contributed to global understanding of cancer risk factors and genetics amongst the Asian community. This will help inform better cancer screening guidelines and treatment worldwide,” Treadell said.
Teo meanwhile thanked her colleagues and team from Cancer Research Malaysia for the award.
“When we first started, no one thought that a non-profit Malaysian organisation in a low resource setting could succeed in cancer research. Today is possible because of countless donors, supporters, partners, doctors and most importantly, patients who have walked with us along this journey,” she said.
Teo co-founded Cancer Research Malaysia in 2001 and the non-profit’s work has improved cancer treatment access for at least 2000 Malaysian women to date.
