Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, I attended Convent Bukit Nanas (CBN) High School at a time when cancer awareness was not as widespread as it is today. My teenage years were filled with the usual adolescent experiences, but one particular story from that period would forever shape my life and career.
I had always admired my girlfriend’s mother, who embodied the ideal of the modern woman during our high school years. She was the kind of person who was always there for us—driving us to and from school, attending afterschool events, and offering her support in all our teenage endeavors. She was a symbol of strength and grace, and I looked up to her deeply. Little did I know, she was battling a devastating illness. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer but chose to keep this diagnosis a secret from her family and friends. Tragically, she passed away not long after her diagnosis, leaving behind an indelible mark on my life. Her passing ignited a passion in me to pursue a career in oncology with the goal of addressing the stigma surrounding cancer, as well as advocating for early detection and treatment.
Unfortunately, her story was not an isolated case. Over the years, I have encountered numerous situations in which fear and stigma around cancer led to delayed diagnoses and ultimately poorer health outcomes. These experiences have fueled my unwavering commitment to advancing cancer research and treatment.
My journey in oncology began with training at the Institute of Cancer Research in London, where I was introduced to the complexities of cancer biology and the molecular pathways that govern our bodies. This experience was pivotal in shaping my understanding of cancer as a multifaceted disease. It also highlighted the importance of evidence-based medicine and debunked many myths, such as the widely held belief in simplistic approaches like the “no-sugar diet” as a cure for cancer. It became clear that only scientific, evidence-driven strategies could lead to meaningful improvements in cancer treatment.
Further training at University College London Hospital and St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London provided invaluable experience in both clinical oncology and the practical application of cutting-edge treatments. These formative years laid the foundation for my future career and gave me insight into the wide variety of cancer cases and innovative approaches to treatment.
Eventually, I returned to Malaysia and became part of the faculty at the University of Malaya (UM), while also serving patients at the University Malaya Medical Centre. This marked the beginning of a rewarding chapter in my career, where I could merge my academic interests with hands-on clinical work. Being part of the UM faculty has been both humbling and enriching, particularly as a postgraduate lecturer and trainer for the Masters in Oncology program. Teaching is often said to be the best way of learning, and I have found that to be true. The experience of mentoring young oncologists, watching them develop into experts in their field, has been incredibly fulfilling.
One of my proudest achievements at UM has been leading the Cancer ECHO program, an initiative designed to equip young oncologists with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective cancer care. By incorporating both radiotherapy and drug therapies, we aim to not only cure but also control cancer, improving the overall quality of life for our patients. This program has been instrumental in providing practical education and fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals in the oncology field.
In addition to my clinical and teaching roles, I am a passionate advocate for Malaysia’s involvement in global cancer research. As a principal investigator in several clinical trials, I have worked tirelessly to encourage local participation in clinical research. The role of clinical trials in advancing cancer treatments cannot be overstated. By ensuring that Malaysian patients have access to the latest medical innovations and treatments, we can significantly enhance our nation’s approach to cancer care.
For me, cancer is more than just a disease—it is a deeply personal journey that affects not only the patients but also their families and communities. The experiences I’ve had—ranging from those early days in Kuala Lumpur to my years of training in London and my work back in Malaysia—have all played a part in shaping my unwavering commitment to improving cancer care. My motivation stems from the memory of patients who have faced this disease with remarkable courage and resilience.
As an oncologist, I am committed to breaking the stigma surrounding cancer, promoting early detection, and offering compassionate, evidence-based care. Through education, research, and clinical practice, we can work together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients, one step at a time.
