Malaysian Pioneer Among 2025 Fellows
On 29 May, the Royal Society of the United Kingdom announced the election of Dr Ravigadevi Sambanthamurthi as a Fellow. This is the first time a Malaysia-based scientist received that honour.
The Royal Society is one of the oldest scientific institutions in the world and chose 90 renowned researchers in this year’s cohort for incredible contributions to artificial intelligence, electron microscopy, public health, and neuroscience.
A Career Built on Scientific Excellence
Dr. Ravigadevi is a distinguished scientist who is originally from Johor Bahru, Malaysia (1955) and is currently based in Petaling Jaya. She has over 40 years of experience in advancing science in Malaysia and abroad. Dr. Ravigadevi is currently a scientific consultant for the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB).
She also received her bachelor degree in biochemistry and microbiology in 1979 from Universiti Malaya, and she completed her PhD from University College London in 1983. Much of Dr. Ravigadevi’s scientific work has been in biotechnology and sustainable palm oil development, usually collaborating with foreign research teams.
Global Impact Through Local Leadership
In addition to her role at MPOB, Ravigadevi heads the biological, agricultural, and environmental sciences division at the Academy of Sciences Malaysia.
She also serves on the board of trustees for the Malaysian Invention and Design Foundation. Her leadership has played a key role in elevating Malaysia’s standing in the global scientific community, especially in agricultural biotechnology.
A Place Among Scientific Greats
Ravigadevi will be formally inducted in London on July 11, 2125, only two days before her 70th birthday. In the induction event, she will sign the Royal Society historic Charter Book, next to legendary scientists Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein, and Stephen Hawking.
This year’s new Fellows and Foreign Members represent countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, China, and Switzerland. The selection process honours both fundamental discoveries and applied research with real-world impact across health, technology, and public policy.
Malaysia’s Growing Role in Global Science
The election of Ravigadevi reflects an increasing recognition of Malaysia’s scientific contributions on the global stage.
Globally, scientists are increasingly assessing global challenges that require different collaborative, cross-border solutions. Her election emphasizes the importance of inclusive excellence in science and innovation.
Watch the video here:
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