Nihon Keizai Shimbun, Inc. awarded the 2004 Nikkei Asia Prizes to three individuals who have dedicated themselves to seeking solutions to problems plaguing their countries and surrounding regions. Recognized for paving the way for a brighter future in Asia are: Muhammad Yunus, a Bangladeshi economist who created a loan facility for the poor; Yongyuth Yuthavong, a Thai researcher who made significant contributions to the study of malaria; and Albert Wendt, a Samoan writer who introduced the indigenous culture of his region in an English-language novel and poems.
- This year's winners are
- Muhammad Yunus
- Yongyuth Yuthavong
- Albert Wendt
Nikkei Asia Prizes
The Nikkei Asia Prizes were created to recognize significant contributions made by individuals or groups to the development of Asia and improvements in the region's standard of living. The awards program, launched by Nihon Keizai Shimbun, Inc. in 1996 to mark its 120th anniversary, honors individuals or groups across three categories: regional growth; science, technology and innovation; and culture.
In selecting the winners, the focus is primarily on their contribution to the Asian economy, improvements in living conditions and cultural development, as well as the originality of their activities from a global perspective.
The prizes target individuals and groups in northeastern, southeastern, southern and central Asia, excluding Japan. The selection committee is chaired by Gaishi Hiraiwa, former chairman of a predecessor organization of the Japan Business Federation.
