World Science Forum (WSF) & Global Knowledge Dialogue

Since 2003, the biennial WSF acts as a platform for discussion between the scientific community and society. This forum was organised by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in partnership with UNESCO, the International Council for Science (ICSU) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

This year, ASM participated in the WSF for the first time. This biennial forum was held from 5 to 9 December 2022 in Cape Town, South Africa with the theme “Science for Social Justice”. South African President, Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his keynote address during the opening of WSF 2022. He urged delegates to work towards a concerted global action for science to challenge and address inequality, injustice, poverty, environmental destruction and marginalisation.

Coupled with the WSF was the Global Knowledge Dialogue organised by ISC, in which ASM was invited to participate as a member. This one-day dialogue ignited ideas and discussions regarding cultural reforms, education and inclusivity. “Access does not mean success”, as coined by one of the panellists – urging member academies to not only provide accessibility but work towards making an impact.     

The five-day event comprises several side events – in which ASM chose to take part in relevant discussions, such as indigenous knowledge systems, science diplomacy, and open science. The forum was a great opportunity for ASM to network with other institutions that strive towards common goals in the advancement of science, technology and innovation.  As a member of the ISC, Professor Emerita Datuk Dr Asma Ismail FASc presented on “Justice in Science – How to Ensure Science Reflects the Society We Want – The Malaysian Experience”. Her presentation received attention from delegates of several countries, increasing Malaysia’s visibility in the global arena.

ASM also had a brief meeting with HRH Princess Sumaya El Hasan, President of the Royal Scientific Society (RSS) on the potential collaboration with ASM. Intentions were made to further strengthen collaboration between the sister academies.

Professor Emerita Datuk Dr Asma Ismail FsC (ASM President), presenting on Justice in Science – How to Ensure Science Reflects the Society We Want – The Malaysian Experience.

Ts Dr K. Nagulendran (Deputy Secretary-General, Planning & Science Enculturation, MOSTI) as part of the panel discussing on Interfacing Scientific and Indigenous Knowledge Systems to Deepen Social Justice in the SADC Region (AUDA NEPAD SANBio)