our committee
committees list
Prof. Dr. Tan Geok Chin
MBBS (India), MPath (UKM), PhD (Imperial)(UK), PedPath Fellowship (Int.Scholar,US)
Professor Dr. Tan Geok Chin is a distinguished Professor of Pathology and Consultant of Anatomical Pathology at the Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia (UKM). His educational background includes training in anatomical pathology at UKM, a PhD from Imperial College London focusing on microRNA isomers in Stem Cells, and an MBBS from Manipal University, India. He holds a Master of Pathology (Anatomical Pathology) from UKM and completed Paediatric Pathology Fellowship training at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA.
Currently serving as the Editor-in-Chief of the Malaysian Journal of Pathology and a member of the medical ethics committee at UKM. Professor Dr. Tan is actively involved in various committees and roles within the medical community. This includes serving as a member of the credentialing committee for Anatomical Pathology at the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and contributing to the Education and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Committees at the College of Pathologists (CPath), Academy of Medicine Malaysia. Additionally, he acts as the Treasurer for the Chapter of Perinatal and Paediatric Pathology within the College of Pathologists, overseeing financial matters for this specific chapter. He served as the chairman of the International Congress of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (ICPALM) 2023 Scientific Committee.
Professor Tan actively participates in Perinatal and Gastrointestinal (GUT) Research Groups. His current research focus lies in Paediatric and Perinatal Pathology, with ongoing projects such as gene expression of hydatidiform mole, chorioamnionitis, its correlation with neonatal outcomes, and the GUT microbiome of neonates. His exemplary service has been recognized with multiple awards (2007 and 2019), including the Best Article Award from the Medical Journal of Malaysia and the Best Poster Award from the Royal Society of Edinburgh.
Prof. Ts. Dr. Cheah Yoke Kqueen
BSc (Hons)(UPM), PgDip Bioinformatics (PERDANA), MSc (UPM), MBA (UK), PhD (UPM), CSci, CBiol, FIBMS, FRSB, FRSC, EurProBio
Professor Ts. Dr. Cheah Yoke Kqueen is a highly accomplished academic and researcher with expertise in Genetic Engineering, Molecular Biology, and Bioinformatics. He holds a BSc in Biomedical Science and completed his MSc in Molecular Biology and a PhD in Genetic Engineering and Molecular Biology in 2006. Additionally, he obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Bioinformatics in 2018.
Professor Cheah is a pivotal figure in molecular diagnostics for lung cancer, pioneering its development and collaborating extensively in areas such as molecular diagnostics, epigenetics, and therapeutics in Malaysia. He is a technical advisor to Subang Jaya Medical Centre’s molecular department, where he specialises in molecular diagnostics and targeted therapy. His impact goes beyond cancer research, emphasizing molecular diagnostics applications for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and infectious diseases.
As the Editor-in-Chief of Life Sciences, Medicine and Biomedicine, and Journal of Transdisciplinary Biomedicine, Professor Cheah is involved in multidisciplinary research spanning fundamental cancer biology, food safety, microbes, bioinformatics, molecular diagnostics, and drug discovery. He has an impressive track record with a H-index (SCOPUS) of 31, with over 200 scientific publications, 5 patents, copyrights, and numerous awards, he has led 15 research grants and received recognition for his outstanding contributions.
Professor Cheah received the Top Research Scientist Malaysia award in 2017. Advisor to the Malaysian Biomedical Science Association and involved in scientific communities like the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM). Serving as Clinical Scientist-Biomedical for the Malaysia Allied Health Professions Council, he shapes regulations under the Allied Health Profession Act 774. Beyond academia, he founded BioMedKL and MyBioMed, aiming to nurture biomedical graduates.
Currently, as the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at UPM, Professor Cheah actively shapes biomedical science curricula, ensuring graduates’ employability and contributing to the MQA Committee.
Dato’ Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Bin Dato’ Hj. Abdul Wahid
DPMP, MBBCH (Wales), DMRT (UK), FAM (Mal)
Dato’ Dr. Hj. Mohamed Ibrahim Bin Dato’ Hj. Abdul Wahid is currently serving as the Vice President in College of Radiology. He served as the Past President of the Malaysian Oncology Society, and Past President of the Asia Pacific Federation of Cancer Research & Control.
Dato’ Dr. Hj. Mohamed Ibrahim is a highly skilled medical professional with a solid foundation in Clinical Oncology [DPMP, MBBCH (Wales), DMRT (UK), FAM (Mal)]. Extensive experience in Radiotherapy from the USA, complemented by a comprehensive understanding of medical guidelines and best practices. Known for his publications – “Patient Guidelines to Radiation Therapy”, including his involvement in multiple Clinical Oncology journals from recent years. Dedicated his research to multiple associations such as AstraZeneca, Roche, Pfizer, and global associations.
Dr. Rebecca Tay Sook Hui
BSc Biomedical Science, MSc Nutrition Physiology, Dual PhD Pharmacy (UPM)(University of Nottingham) & Molecular Medicine
Doctor Rebecca Tay is the CEO of Beacon Precision Diagnostics (BPD), an award-winning, patient-centric, hospital-based pathology and clinical laboratory. Losing her biological mother in her thirties to cancer, Dr. Rebecca has been devoted to becoming a medical scientist for leading-edge medical breakthroughs and healthcare solutions for human diseases. Driven by this devotion, she is grateful to be the first Dual PhD’s graduate from the University of Nottingham, UK (Pharmacy) and University Putra Malaysia (UPM) (Molecular Medicine). She had successfully filed the patent for the discovery of novel molecular pathways associated with clinical outcome improvement. She was overwhelmed by how advancement in pharmacogenomics could potentially integrate into cutting-edge healthcare to prevent adverse drug reactions (ADRs) when she was given an opportunity at The University of Nottingham to teach Pharmacogenomics to the students under the problem-based learning (PBL) program. Geared up with the comprehension of precision medicine, using genetic profiling, she, her husband, and a team of healthcare providers were able to intervene and assist her stepmom in entering remission from her fourth-stage lung cancer. Seeing her stepmom living a quality life in her fifth year since diagnosis, motivated her to develop a cutting-edge diagnostic laboratory that is affordable to the nation.
Teaming up with renowned scientific healthcare policymakers and medical council, she is dedicated to translating scientific discovery into Medical Revolution in the preventative, diagnostic, and therapeutic healthcare industry, transitioning from the ‘One-drug-fits-all” paradigm towards personalized-tailored-treatment, namely Precision Medicine. She managed to acquire millions of investments or sponsorships from various local and Fortune 500 companies and successfully developed genome-wide Pharmacogenomic testing, namely PRECISE Pharmacogenomic. PRECISE Pharmacogenomic reporting is curated with medical databases accredited by UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) ISO 13485 for the Quality Management System certification NQA (National Quality Assurance Limited) and Health Sciences Authority (HSA), Republic of Singapore to support clinicians for clinical recommendation and personalised targeted treatment.
Under her leadership, BPD has been awarded by The Malaysia Book of Records 2023 for “First Clinical Recommended Genome-wide Pharmacogenomics”, essentially to prevent the top four (CDC, 2021) or top six (Montastruc et al, 2021) leading death from ADR. Additionally, BPD has also successfully curated and validated PRECISE Nutrigenomics focusing on preventive healthcare, facilitating the design of personalized nutrition plans based on an individual’s genetic profile to prevent the onset of diet-related illnesses, reduce obesity, control diabetes, maintain optimal health, and prevent nutrient deficiency.
Dr. Rebecca is currently the principal investigator (PI) of the research collaboration agreement with the National University of Singapore (NUS) on the “Implementation of Pharmacogenomic – A Precision Medicine Initiative”. Together with NUS’s PI, A/Professor Dr Doreen Tan Su-Yin, the agreement aims to oversee and advise on the implementation plan for pharmacogenomics through the design and analysis of surveys and to provide oversight on data analysis and publication. She has been appointed as the board of advisory for various universities such as International Medical University (IMU) and University Putra Malaysia (UPM). Committed to Advancing Tomorrow’s Cure, BPD has been invited to sign multiple MOUs with various renowned universities locally and globally that focus on research breakthroughs. BPD seeks to support our primary care, transforming the first line of defense from sick care to preventive healthcare and reducing the nation’s healthcare economic burden.
Dr. Rebecca has been frequently engaged by various universities, hospitals, corporations, and associations as a guest of honour, keynote speaker, expert opinion forum, judge, and advisor for healthcare, precision medicine, wellness, and entrepreneurship, nationally and globally.
Mr. Lim Jack Shen
B. Pharm, Monash University Australia, Vice-President Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA), Honorary Secretary, Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society (MPS)
Jack Shen Lim embarked on his pharmacy career with a solid foundation from Monash University, Australia, bringing a global perspective to his work. Transitioning from a hospital pharmacist at Western Health Melbourne to various roles across Malaysia, his 18-year career spans manufacturing, industry, medical affairs, community pharmacy, digital health, and data analytics. Each phase of Jack’s career has been marked by increasing responsibility, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to advancing pharmacy practice.
A leader intent on building the future, Jack co-founded the Malaysian Pharmacists Society Young Pharmacist Chapter (MPS-YPC), Honorary Secretary of MPS, the Chairperson of Health Technology, Devices and Innovation Chapter of MPS, and the Asian Young Pharmacist Group (AYPG), reflecting his dedication to nurturing emerging talent in the pharmacy field. His leadership journey continued as he served as the Honorary Secretary (2023-2025) of the MPS, after his impactful tenure as Honorary Treasurer (2018-2023). These roles underscore his pivotal contribution to steering the profession toward future challenges and opportunities.
On the international stage, Jack’s influence is evident as Vice-President of the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) and as the MPS liaison to the International Federation of Pharmacy (FIP) council. His election as an Observer to the FIP Community Pharmacy Section (FIP-CPS) Executive Committee in January 2024 showcases his recognition as a global pharmacy leader. Organizing the 28th FAPA Congress in Malaysia, Jack demonstrated exceptional leadership in bringing international healthcare discussions to the forefront.
Jack’s passion extends beyond traditional pharmacy practice into precision medicine, scientific wellness, and technology’s role in public health. Advocating for adult vaccination, digital healthcare solutions, healthcare financing, and data analytics, he envisions a future where healthcare is personalized, accessible, and enhanced through technological advancements.
Jack Shen Lim stands as a beacon of innovation, leadership, and advocacy in the pharmacy profession. His journey reflects a deep-seated commitment to improving healthcare delivery and outcomes, both in Malaysia and internationally. Through his work, Jack inspires a new generation of pharmacists to explore the intersections of technology, healthcare, and pharmacy practice, paving the way for a healthier future for all.
Mr. Gew Soon Peng
MSc. Science of Dietetics (UPM), PhD Researcher in Precision Nutrition, Diabetes Educators (IDF)(EACCME), HRDC Certified Trainer
Gew Soon Peng is a Clinical Nutritionist, HRDC Certified Trainer and PhD Researcher in Precision Nutrition, who specializes Medical Nutrition Therapy, Weight Loss and Type 2 Diabetes with extensive knowledge on evidence-based practice (Clinical Therapeutic Nutrition), lifestyle intervention, and nutritive supplements over 10 years. He has a MSc in Science of Dietetics under Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). Mr Gew is also a Diabetes Educator under the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) School of Diabetes certified and accredited by the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME). He also has obtained the certification of “Good Clinical Practice” under the Clinical Research Centre, Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH).
He has devoted to commendable patient outcomes by finding a niche using nutrition care practice, nutritive supplements, and effective communication with patients and other medical team members. A proven track record of accurately assessing the needs of patients and creating appropriate treatment plans to best address their needs, especially improving their quality of life. Also actively engaged as a health and entrepreneurship speaker in various organizations; viz. academic institutions, hospitals, and corporate companies locally and globally.
Dr. Lee Han Chung
BSc in Biotechnology, MSc in Medical Science, PhD in Neuroscience
Doctor Lee Han Chung is a Molecular and Cellular Biologist. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in 2005. With a passion for science and medical research, he continued his journey. He joined a research team in the Pathology Department at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Medical Centre, where he obtained his Master’s degree in Medical Science. He studied the association of inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes with high-risk breast cancer patients, particularly in patients diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age or with any familial history of breast and ovarian cancer. By integrating genetic information identified during his research with the known prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation in Malaysian Breast Cancer patients thereby allowing for better management of cancer patients.
Moving forward, he joined the Medical Genetics Laboratory at UPM to pursue his PhD which focuses on the altered signaling pathway leading to an imbalance number of neurons and glial cells by using the brain of the mouse model with Down Syndrome (DS). With the research output, it may lead to therapeutics that can improve the quality of life of individuals with DS. Before joining Beacon Precision Diagnostics, he is one of the members responsible for setting up research laboratories in a few Private universities, in addition to being a regulatory affairs personnel in a pharmaceutical company as well. He is well-trained in molecular experimental designs, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), quantitative PCR, and cell-based techniques. He was the instructor and application specialist for molecular biology techniques in a private university and a life-science company, respectively. His current interest is using genetic testing to tailor medical treatments to individual patients with different disease conditions.
Industry, Community & Networking
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hoo Fan Kee
MD (Mal), MRCP (UK), MRCPS (Glasgow)
Doctor Hoo Fan Kee is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). He is a Clinical Neurologist and Internal Medicine Specialist at Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah, UPM.
Dr. Hoo participates in several professional committees, including being the chairman of the Malaysia Stroke Council since 2018, a member of the Global Neuro Research Coalition, and a panelist of the Malaysia Clinical Practice Guidelines Panel for the Management of Ischemic Stroke from 2018 to 2020 and the Management of Patent Foramen Ovale-Stroke 2022.
Dr. Hoo has special interests in neurology, stroke, lifestyle diseases, and internal medicine. He was a principal investigator in clinical trials such as DRAGON, TRIDENT, and TICH-3. Dr. Hoo has been involved in over 100 publications in international journals.
Dr. Cheong Yuen Khai
Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), The University of Dundee
Doctor Cheong completed his education in Dundee, Scotland, where he focused on medicine. He underwent a two-year training period as a junior doctor in both adult and paediatric medicine in Glasgow, Scotland. Following this pursue, he dedicated a year to pursuing his interest in paediatrics in Invercargill, New Zealand. Dr. Cheong is known for his thoughtfulness, dedication, compassion, reliability, and strong work ethic, always prioritizing the well-being of his patients.
As a firm advocate of preventive medicine, Dr. Cheong’s fascination with the concept of wellness has been further piqued by advancements in technologies such as cellular therapy and Nutrigenomics. He incorporates genetics, dietary choices, and lifestyle factors into his daily approach.
Ms. Maria Phang
BSc Nursing Science, Certified HRDC Trainer, Certified in Strategic Management
Nursing Graduate from IMC(formerly know as IKSKP), with 1st Class Honour. Besides that, she was bestowed the best student for LJM examination & IMC for year 2008. During her years with Pantai Hospital, she gained vast working experience in critical care nursing, quality and risk management, hospital administrative and management. After 8 years with Pantai Hospital, she started her journey with Beacon Hospital as Quality Manager, then moved up to be in the top management as Senior Manager.
Before her appointment to set up the Beacon Wellness business, she was with the Corporate Strategy Team. In a brief of 5 months, prior to her appointment as Beacon Premier Wellness General Manager, she gathered a team of 13 certified dietitians, supported by administrative personal to be one of the biggest team of Community Dietitians in Malaysia, as affiliate to Beacon Hospital.
Moving on, she took the challenge and was appointed as the Director of Operations for the Beacon Precision Diagnostics (BPD) – Molecular Division, working hand in hand with the Management Leaders to spearhead the Molecular Services.
Scientific Professional Development
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Geeta Appannah
BSc (USM), MSc (UKM), PhD (Cambridge)
Doctor Geeta Appannah is an Associate Professor of Community Nutrition with a strong background in researching dietary determinants of poor health in children, adolescents, and adults. She earned her PhD from MRC Human Nutrition Research at the University of Cambridge in 2013 and has since dedicated her career to investigating various aspects of nutrition and health. Her research interests span a wide range of topics including obesity, cardiometabolic risk factors, dietary intake determinants, food affordability, and social determinants of dietary patterns. She employs empirical methods to derive dietary patterns and explores life course dietary trajectories to better understand the complexities of dietary habits across different populations.
Dr. Geeta maintains collaborative research partnerships internationally, notably in Australia, Ghana, and Singapore. In Australia, she co-leads the Diet Special Interest Group of The Raine Study, a prospective research project focusing on young people. Additionally, she engages in collaborative studies in Ghana and serves as a visiting academic fellow at the National University of Singapore (NUS). Beyond her research endeavors, Dr. Geeta holds leadership roles in professional associations related to nutrition and obesity, including serving as the President of the Malaysian Association for the Study of Obesity (MASO). She is also an active member of the Malaysian Dietetics Association (MDA) and the Nutrition Society of Malaysia (NSM).
Dr. Geeta is deeply involved in academic publishing as an Associate Editor for Public Health Nutrition and Frontiers in Nutrition. She also contributes as a reviewer for various journals in the field of Nutrition and Dietetics, showcasing her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in her field. Furthermore, Dr. Geeta provides valuable science advice for dietary guidelines and reports in Malaysia, highlighting her dedication to informing evidence-based policy decisions in public health nutrition. Currently, Dr. Geeta is based at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), where she continues her research focused on identifying childhood obesity and cardio-metabolic risks, with a particular emphasis on early-life, social, and lifestyle factors. Her work contributes significantly to the understanding and mitigation of nutrition-related health challenges in diverse populations.
Ms. Audrey Yap
B.Pharm, Curtin University of Technology Australia, Certified in Pharmacogenomics (Mayo Clinic)
Graduated from Curtin University of Technology in Perth, Australia. Certified and practicing pharmacist with Pharmacy degree. More than 20 years of experience providing top-notch services in a retail & hospital setting. Especially in hospital setting, has been exposed in diverse duties and was holding senior management post in managing hospital operations, responsible for managing its resources, developing and implementing an operational plan. Significant research experience in clinical research with GCP certified.
Dr. Cheong Yuen Zhi
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery & Bachelor of Obstetrics, National University of Ireland
Doctor Cheong Yuen Zhi is a highly accomplished medical professional with a diverse background in both clinical practice and hospital management. With degrees from Penang Medical College and the National University of Ireland, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field of medicine.
Following his education, Dr. Cheong Yuen Zhi underwent rigorous training within the Malaysian healthcare system. He gained invaluable experience working under the Anaesthesiology and Orthopedics departments at Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah for a period of 8 years. During this time, he honed his skills in clinical diagnosis, treatment, and patient care, while also developing a deep understanding of hospital operations.
In addition to his managerial responsibilities, Dr. Cheong Yuen Zhi is actively involved in spearheading the implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) at Beacon Hospital. Recognizing the importance of technological advancements in healthcare, he is dedicated to streamlining processes and enhancing patient care through the adoption of EMR systems.
Dr. Cheong Yuen Zhi is a firm believer in the potential of Pharmacogenomics to revolutionize the field of medicine. He is deeply interested in the intersection of genetics and pharmaceuticals, recognizing the significance of personalized medicine in improving treatment outcomes and patient care. With a forward-thinking approach, he remains committed to staying abreast of the latest developments in this rapidly evolving field.
Publicity, IT & Membership
Prof. Dr. Wong Yin Ping
MD (UKM), DrPath (Anatomic Pathology)(UKM)
Doctor Yin Ping Wong is an Associate Professor of Pathology, consultant histopathologist, cytopathologist and senior lecturer in the Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). She received her master training in Anatomical Pathology at UKM. She obtained a Fellowship award (F.I.A.C) from an International Professional Body – International Academy of Cytology (IAC) in the year 2019.
Dr. Yin Pin Wong is also currently a trainee technical assessor for medical laboratory accreditation ISO 15189 with the Department of Standard Malaysia since June 2022. She has more than 60 publications in high impact peer reviewed indexed journals and two book chapters. She has received multiple awards including Best Poster Awards (in the last 5 years), Excellent Service Award for the year 2019 and Highest Publication Award (3rd Place) in the year 2022. Also, she serves as Associate Editor for The Malaysian Journal of Pathology and editorial board member for Medicine and Health Journal. Besides, she contributes as invited reviewers for many high impact indexed journals.
Dr. Nur Fariesha Md Hashim
BSc Biomedical Science (UPM), MSc Radiation Biology (University College London), PhD Cancer Cell Biology (King’s College London)
Doctor Nur Fariesha Md Hashim holds the position of Senior Lecturer at the Biomedical Science Department within the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at UPM. She teaches Human Physiology and Radiobiology and conducts specialised research in Cancer Cell Biology. Dr Nur Fariesha Md Hashim represents the Head of Unit of Physiology in the Department of Biomedical Science.
Dr. Nur Fariesha Md Hashim primarily focuses her study on the invasion and metastasis of hypoxic cancer cells, as well as the impact of radiation and natural products on cancer cell behaviour. She is investigating the molecular targets involved in the creation of invadopodia by invasive cancer cells under hypoxic conditions. She is presently a member of the Young Scientists Network-Academy of Science Malaysia (YSN-ASM).
Mr. Liau Kian Ming
BIT Computer Engineering (UTAR)
Kian Ming specialist in financial systems in terms of the banking and insurance industry for nearly 15 years. He earned a Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons) in Computer Engineering at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) in 2008. Throughout his career, he has been involved in over 55 projects with back-to-back systems. He was involved in Swift Message (ISO 15022 & ISO 20022), AML, and payment systems for nearly a decade. Proficient in impact and risk analysis, along with problem-solving skills. He was proactive and took many steps to improve the workflow regularly, minimizing human intervention and maximizing processing speed. To meet SDLC standards, it is crucial to safeguard all processes, documentation, and data protection.