He is a leading expert in paediatric surgery in Vietnam and used to serve as the director of the Vietnam National Children’s Hospital, one of the country’s major paediatric centres. The doctor has made special contributions to paediatric endoscopic techniques, and invented nine surgical techniques entirely different from those currently utilised across the world.

His fame is also associated with a number of surgeries used in separating conjoined twins in Vietnam, which have been considered the most complicated operations nationwide.

Many surgeons in children’s treatment, domestic and foreign, have trained under his guidance.

Established in 1996, the annual Nikkei Asia Prize recognises outstanding achievements and contributions to the region’s sustainable development and the creation of a better future for Asia. The prizes are awarded in three categories: Economic and Business Innovation, Science and Technology and Culture and Community. Recipients may be an individual or a group or organisation in any Asian country, except Japan, and they are awarded three million yen along with a certificate.