Through her leadership in molecular biology and biotechnology, Pia D Bagamasbad was pivotal in the Philippines’ pandemic response. The director of the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology spearheaded the country’s RT-PCR training programme, significantly enhancing Covid-19 testing capacity by training 113 medical technologists from various hospitals. Her initiatives transitioned to the UP Covid-19 Online Learning Laboratory, which further trained over 2,236 laboratorians nationwide. Despite challenges in life science research in the Philippines, Bagamasbad stressed the need to to prioritise STEM development. “These challenges can be addressed if we put the development of STEM professionals and research programmes a top national priority, and amend the laws that will eliminate these barriers to developing high-impact, progressive research programmes in the country,” she said to Tatler.

Read Pia D Bagamasbad’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential

A leader in the global scientific community, Jackie Ying established the Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology in 2003 and served as a senior fellow and director of the NanoBio Lab of research agency A*STAR. Recognised for her interdisciplinary scientific research, which focuses on the synthesis of advanced nanostructured materials for biomaterial and catalytic applications, she was awarded the King Faisal Prize for Science laureate in 2023 and became the first scientist to be elected as a member of the US National Academy of Engineering in 2021. Dr Lin also holds over 200 primary patents for applications in nanomedicine, drug delivery, medical implants, cell and tissue engineering, bioassays and medical devices.

Read Jackie Ying’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential

Pimjai Jaiyen’s scientific journey began at age 12, leading her to the US for a doctorate in biochemistry from Michigan State University. Now a tenured professor at Mahidol University, she contributes to global scientific advancements through her research on enzyme catalysis mechanisms for industrial applications. The professor’s work exemplifies the intersection of academic research and practical application, aiming to address sustainability challenges through innovative biochemical solutions.

Read Pimjai Jaiyen’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential

Science communicator Mahaletchumy Arujanan bridges the gap between science and the public through her roles as the executive director of the Malaysian Biotechnology Information Center and the global coordinator of the International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications. With more than 25 years of experience in academia, non-profits and government agencies, the biotechnologist focuses her efforts on food and energy security, climate change mitigation, poverty alleviation among farmers and sustainable development. In 2023, Dr Arujunan established the Science Communication Advisory Board for the Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation to ensure the success of the science communication efforts of OIC member states. She is also known for establishing Malaysia’s first science newspaper, The Petri Dish.

Read Mahaletchumy Arujanan’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential

Dr Ko-Chung Lin is the co-founder and CEO of PharmaEssentia, the global biopharmaceutical company that develops new biologics in haematology and oncology. With extensive experience in the biotechnology field, he has a pivotal role in advancing therapeutic solutions, including Ropeginterferon alfa-2b for blood cancers and Oraxol, an oral formulation for breast cancer. Lin’s vision for PharmaEssentia focuses on integrating scientific expertise with government support to power the biotech industry in Taiwan. In June 2024, PharmaEssentia announced an update on two clinical trials that aim to advance treatment options for polycythemia vera with Ropeginterferon alfa-2b.

Read Ko-Chung Lin’s full profile on Asia’s Most Influential

Tatler Asia’s Most Influential is the definitive list of people shaping our world today. Asia’s Most Influential brings together the region's most innovative changemakers, industry titans and thought leaders who are driving positive impact in Asia and beyond. View the full list here.

NOW READ

These retail giants are creating Asia’s best community spaces

14 powerful quotes from Asia’s elite athletes to spark the competitive spirit

Behind every successful Olympic team are sports administrators paving the way