FOREWORD

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation

Art and science have traditionally been viewed as separate and distinct fields. However, the convergence of art and science can lead to new insights and discoveries. ArtScienceTM, in sum, connects. The future of humanity and civil society depends on these connections. ArtScienceTM is a new way to explore culture, society, and human experience that integrates synesthetic experience with analytical exploration. It is knowing, analysing, experiencing, and feeling simultaneously. Todd Siler coined the “ArtScience” term for the first time in his book “Breaking the mind barrier” in 1990.

ArtScienceTM could be a way to improve human life by using transdisciplinary interactions between art and science. This method challenges us to reconsider our approach to innovation and generate new ideas for enhancing the planet and human well-being. ArtScienceTM provides novel perspectives for problem-solving and promotes innovative thinking.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) believes that the theme “ArtScienceTM Lens on Planetary Health” has prompted participants to deeply consider the subject matter. Through discussions and interactions, new understandings and solutions can be developed.

With proper implementation, these concepts could become future solutions to address issues related to the nation’s sustainability, thereby championing the National Planetary Health Action Plan led by MOSTI and the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM). This initiative is also aligned with MOSTI’s objective of driving innovation and promoting creativity in Malaysia.

Through ASM, MOSTI believes that the biennial ArtScienceTM Prize Initiative will stimulate new areas of interest and activities. ArtScienceTM is a field that welcomes everyone, regardless of their background - be it artists, engineers, anthropologists, designers, architects, and more. Congratulations to ASM, the Maybank Foundation, and strategic partners for providing a meaningful platform to promote the convergence of arts and sciences to the community.

MOSTI commends ASM and other strategic partners for their commitment to this important initiative. We hope their collaboration will inspire other industrygovernment partnerships to support ArtScienceTM and its potential to transform Malaysia’s innovation landscape. Ultimately, the convergence of arts and sciences in ArtScienceTM will lead to practical, beautiful, and inspiring solutions.