The International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) MBBS programme was recently accredited for another five years, with a revised curriculum set to launch for the 2025/2026 cohort. This new curriculum restructures the programme into the university’s three-semester academic system, aligning it with the broader university framework. It also emphasises practical and clinical skills in assessments and…
My 30-Day Journey with the BYD Seal
Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) has been an exciting step forward, and spending the past 30 days driving the BYD Seal has been a journey of discovery. Covering more than 3,500 km, this experience has reshaped my perspective on EVs, their practicality, and the state of infrastructure in Malaysia. I purchased the BYD Seal…
One Health as an Approach and Planetary Health as the Outcome
Recently, I had the privilege of catching up with an old colleague, Professor Razita Sham, who has been appointed as a Professor in the Kulliyyah of Medicine, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Prof Razita, who is retiring from UNIMAS, and I share a professional history. Although she is more senior than I am, we completed…
Using AI in Medicine and Preparing a Framework for Medical Education
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine is transforming healthcare, enabling advanced diagnostics, improved decision-making, and operational efficiencies. However, its application requires careful consideration to ensure that the essence of patient care—ethical responsibility and compassion—is maintained. Clear guidelines are essential to navigate this evolving landscape while simultaneously preparing medical professionals to harness AI effectively…
Understanding the Central Limit Theorem and Estimating Population Mean Using Sample Data
The Central Limit Theorem (CLT) is a fundamental concept in statistics and an essential tool in biostatistics. It provides a foundation for understanding how sample data can be used to make inferences about an entire population. This article will guide students through the development and significance of the CLT, exploring the role of sample means,…
The Alignment of Malaysia’s Health White Paper with the WHO Pathogen Prioritisation Framework for Infectious Disease Preparedness
Abstract Amid rising global threats from infectious diseases, Malaysia’s Health White Paper (MHW) outlines a national strategy for health security and preparedness, aligning with the WHO’s pathogen prioritisation framework for epidemic and pandemic response. This paper examines the MHW’s focus on pathogen family-based research, surveillance, and international collaboration and assesses its alignment with the WHO’s…
All Swans Are White
Photo by John Harrison Imagine that every swan observed in a particular region is white, leading to the belief that “all swans are white.” This conclusion appears reliable until the unexpected discovery of a black swan, which disproves this assumption. This example demonstrates a fundamental principle of hypothesis testing: science is often less about proving…
Impact Over Output in Education and Research
In the modern landscape of education and community engagement, success has long been measured by outputs—metrics like the number of publications, course completions, or participants reached. While these indicators of process are essential, they often offer only a superficial view of the real-world change that such efforts can achieve. True impact extends beyond these processes,…
Expanding Flexibility in Malaysia’s Medical Specialist Training
The evolving demands on healthcare systems worldwide have highlighted the need for direct-care physicians to adopt educational roles. A recent JAMA article by Sweigart, Watson, and Burger (2024) emphasises this trend, explaining that more physicians are being called upon to act as educators as training expands to new healthcare settings. This development is particularly relevant…
Lonely
Reluctant I stood, thrust into this place,Not chosen by will, yet I embrace the grace,A weight I carry, solemn and true,Guided by purpose, though unsure of the view. Time fades to whispers, deadlines blur,I heed no pressure from titles that stir,If power deems me fit to leave,Indifference shields what I believe. Climbing the curve, each…