Scientists should leave the confines of the four walls of their laboratories and be proactively engaged in public policy decision-making processes.
According to astrophysicist Datuk Dr Mazlan Othman, scientists are in a better position to grasp a situation and make decisions based upon it.
"Scientists have already embraced science in their lives, so decision-making is very natural, almost second nature to them," she said.
While acknowledging that people from non-science backgrounds can be briefed about a certain issue which requires scientific analysis, she said it can never be the same like having a scientist whose second nature is sound decision making.
Even in matters which doesn't necessarily involve scientific analysis, having a person equipped with science background could make a difference, she implied.
She passionately advocated for more scientists to take up important positions in public services.
"I definitely advocate for more scientists to be actively involved in the public decision-making processes. Scientists themselves should ensure their active involvement in public policy making and civil services.
Science should be used for decision making across the board, in defence, health, education and not only in the environment or agriculture matters, she added.
"There should be more politicians who are scientists. More importantly, scientists cannot remain in the lab," Mazlan emphasised when contacted for her take on March for Science organised on Earth Day.
"March for Science in the US is seen quite political because of the impression that President Donald Trump is not supportive of science.
"However, March for Science doesn't have to be anti-establishment. The whole idea is about celebrating diversity in science and humanising the subject of science, putting a human face to it," said Mazlan who has dedicated most of her life in science exploration.
Talks and activities with regard to environmental issues and climate change is of central focus given the March is carried out on Earth Day.
March for Science is a global grassroots initiative that aims to uphold science as a pillar of human freedom and prosperity, and advocate for its role in enacting evidence-based policies that affect the present and future in the best interest of the public.
Sathesh Raj
Sat Apr 22 2017
MAZLAN: Scientists have already embraced science in their lives, so decision-making is very natural, almost second nature to them. -Filepix
Who is Prabowo Subianto, incoming president of Indonesia?
A wealthy ex-general with ties to Indonesia's popular outgoing president and its dictatorial past, looks set to be its next leader.
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.