KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 21): The L'Oréal Foundation has awarded grant money totalling RM90,000 to three female scientists for their research projects in Malaysia under its L'Oréal-UNESCO Fellowship for Women in Science.

In a statement recently, L'Oréal Foundation said the projects include research into more accurate cancer risk prediction, obesity prevention study, and material engineering.

The foundation said since its inception, over RM1 million in grants has been awarded to more than 40 female scientists in recognition of their achievements in science.

The recipients this year were Shivaani Mariapun from the University of Nottingham Malaysia for her research on mammographic density and breast cancer risk in Asian women; Dr Lim Way Foong of University Sains Malaysia, who through her research is aiming to develop an alternative version of LED light; and Dr Wan Iryani Wan Ismail from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, for her research on obesity control using honey.

L'Oréal Malaysia and Singapore managing director Malek Bekdache said the foundation hoped to encourage female scientists to step up and show the world what they are capable of and how their ideas and innovativeness can help set the path for a brighter and more sustainable future.

"At the same time, we also hope that through this prestigious award, we help inspire the next generation of scientists and more importantly, young girls — and even young boys — to choose science as their career," he said.