Nikkei Inc. has announced the winners of the 2010 Nikkei Asia Prizes, which recognize achievements that contribute to the improved well-being of Asian people.
In the category of regional growth, Tony Fernandes, 45, Group CEO of AirAsia Bhd, received the award for his achievements in remaking the company into one of the most successful international airlines in Southeast Asia despite the recent economic slowdown of the airline industry. Under his leadership, the company revolutionized the air travel industry in the region by pioneering the discount carrier phenomenon. As a result, air travel became widely available for lower- and middle-income earners who had to spend long hours on trains and busses to travel in the region.
In the science, technology and innovation category, Chen Ding-shinn, 66, Distinguished Chair Professor of National Taiwan University College of Medicine & National Taiwan University Hospital received the award in honor of his accomplishment in discovering the link between the hepatitis B virus and liver cancer. His prizeworthy contribution in creating a public health program in Taiwan more than 20 years ago that has vaccinated nearly all newborns there against hepatitis B, drastically reduced the incidence of liver cancer.
Manteb Soedharsono, 61, a "legendary" performer of the traditional Indonesian shadow puppet art of Wayang won the culture prize in honor of his activities delighting audiences the around the world with performances full of originality for example, ones that blend the time-honored tools of his trade with modern music or that last for 24 consecutive hours.
Nikkei Asia Prizes
Launched by Nikkei Inc. in 1996, the awards program honors people in Asia who have made significant contributions in three areas: regional growth; science, technology and innovation; and culture.
The prizes target individuals and groups in northeastern, southeastern, southern and central Asia, excluding Japan. The selection committee is chaired by Shoichiro Toyoda, honorary chairman of Nippon Keidanren.
