Dr Shukor, an orthopaedic surgeon by profession, was the first Malaysian in space. He was selected as one of two astronauts to be trained at Star City in Russia and was subsequently selected to be the astronaut to further Malaysia’s Angkasawan programme, which sent him to the International Space Station in 2007. Images of him praying and celebrating Eid increased his popularity in the Muslim world. His launch also prompted the Malaysian National Fatwa Council to issue specific rulings regarding observance of religious obligations (praying and fasting) while in space. He is the author of best-selling books including My Way of Parenting and 49th Rule. Dr Shukor is currently at the National University of Malaysia UKM as a Research Fellow focusing on global issues like climate change, world hunger and humanitarian aid.