Prof Hooi Hooi Lean is an established researcher and professor at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), recognized for her extensive scholarly contributions and numerous awards. She has authored over 200 scholarly articles and academic book chapters. Prof Lean has an established network within the research site in Penang and has served as a post-doctoral visiting scholar at the Department of Economics at Monash University, Australia, in addition to being a visiting scholar at prestigious institutions worldwide. She is the recipient of notable awards, including the Top Research Scientists Malaysia by Academy of Sciences Malaysia, and National Academic Award from the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia. Prof Lean is listed as Top 2% scientists in the world by Stanford University and Lifetime Highly Ranked Scholar by ScholarGPS. Her fellowships include the ASEAN-ROK Academic Exchange Fellowship, the International HERMES Fellowship, and the Faculty Exchange Fellowship from Georg-Simon-Ohm University. 

As part of the Penang Living Lab for Advancing the Creative Economy (PLLACE) project, Prof Lean focuses on creative economy policymaking. She plays a key role in developing tailored policy recommendations that address the needs of Penang’s creative sector. By engaging with stakeholders, including entrepreneurs, researchers, and government agencies, Prof Lean works to develop policies that foster the growth, sustainability, and competitiveness of Penang’s creative industry. In addition to her theoretical contributions, Prof Lean provides guidance to the Malaysian team in managing and implementing the PLLACE project. [email protected]