SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE
It is with great pleasure that we introduce the Scientific Committee for the National Cancer Congress Malaysia 2025. This esteemed group of experts has been carefully selected for their exceptional knowledge, extensive experience, and unwavering commitment to cancer care. As part of the committee, they will contribute their expertise, oversee scientific program sessions, serve as editors of the conference proceedings, and lead the abstract selection process. Their collective dedication will ensure that NCCM 2025 stands as a beacon of excellence in advancing oncology research and innovation.
We proudly present the distinguished members of the Scientific Committee :
Prof. Dr Felicia Chung Fei Lei
Co-chairperson, Scientific Committee,
Programme Leader of BSc (Hons) Medical Biotechnology, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University
Dr Lau Tze Pheng
Co-chairperson, Scientific Committee,
Senior Lecturer, Programme Leader of BSc (Hons) Biology with Psychology, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University
Prof. Ts Dr Goh Bey Hing
Head of Centre, Sunway Biofunctional Molecules Discovery Centre, Sunway University
Assoc. Prof. Dr Caryn Chan Mei Hsien
Lecturer, Community Health Research Centre (ReaCH), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
Dr Hadi Mohamad Abu Rasheed
Scientific Advisor, Qatar Cancer Society (QCS)
Prof. Dato Dr Fitjerald Henry
Professor of Surgery, Department of Medical Education, Sunway University
Dr Eliana binti Ahmad
Senior Assistant Director, Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health
Prof. Dr Anand Sachithanandan
Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Sunway Medical Centre
Dr Suhana Binti Yusak
Physician (Radiotherapy & Oncology), Institut Kanser Negara
Dr Nur Fadhlina Abdul Satar (Dr Nina)
Clinical Oncology, Pantai Hospital
Dr Tan Chih Kiang
Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Picaso Hospital
Dr Vijayan Munusamy
Clinical Specialist, Universiti Malaya Medical Centre
Dr Malwinder Singh Sandhu
Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr Teh Kok Hoi
Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist President, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (MASPHO)
Prof. Dr Chin Kin Fah
Chairman and Founding Director, Academy for Silent Mentor
Dr Ros Suzanna Ahmad Bustamam
Clinical Oncology, Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr Kavinash Loganathan
Research Coordinator, Health Education, Literacy, Promotion and Policy (HELPP), National Cancer Society Malaysia
Dr Jason Chin Yu Aun
Operations Lead, Medical Officer and Community Health, CARE Department, National Cancer Society Malaysia
Dr Shumita Gunasagaran
Manager, Support Services, Support Department, National Cancer Society Malaysia
Prof. Dr Nirmala Bhoo-Pathy
Public Health Physician and Epidemiologist, University of Malaya (UM)
Assoc. Prof. Dr Lim Ren Jye
Medical Director cum Integrative Medicine Consultant, Sunway TCM Centre
Assoc. Prof. Dr Tan Lu Ping
Head of Molecular Pathology Unit Adjunct Associate Professor, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR) Sunway University
Prof. Dr Rakesh Naidu
Professor, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia
Prof. Dr Ho Gwo Fuang
Professor and Senior Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Cengild G.I Medical Centre
Assoc. Prof. Dr Ho Weang Kee
Associate Professor, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Nottingham University
Assoc. Prof. Dr Retnagowri Rajandram
Associate Professor, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya
Prof. Dr Rakesh Naidu
Professor, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia
Prof. Dr Ho Gwo Fuang
Professor and Senior Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Cengild G.I Medical Centre
Prof. Dr Felicia Chung Fei Lei
Programme Leader of BSc (Hons) Medical Biotechnology, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University
Professor Dr. Felicia Chung earned her Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Monash University in 2014. Commencing her academic journey at the International Medical University (Malaysia), she served as a postdoctoral fellow and later transitioned into a lecturer role, focusing her research on cancer cell biology, cancer stem cells, and drug repurposing. In 2017, she secured a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (France), a specialized cancer agency of the World Health Organization. During her tenure, she delved into elucidating mechanisms of epigenome stability, investigating epigenetic biomarkers of cancer, and exploring the influence of genetic alterations on the epigenome within the Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis section. Upon completing her fellowship, Dr. Chung continued her research at the same agency as a postdoctoral scientist until her return to Malaysia in 2021. Presently, her research pursuits are centered around cancer mutational signatures, intratumor heterogeneity, and the epigenetic mechanisms underlying cancer immune evasion.
Dr Lau Tze Pheng
Senior Lecturer, Programme Leader of BSc (Hons) Biology with Psychology, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University
Dr. Lau’s doctoral research primarily investigated the role of low-penetrance genes in colorectal cancer, along with the characterization of stage-specific gene expression and proteomic profiles of colorectal tumors within the Malaysian population. Subsequently, during her postgraduate research fellowship, she further explored topics such as telomere length, telomerase activity, and microsatellite instability status in colorectal tumors. Transitioning into her early professional career, Dr. Lau played a pioneering role in establishing a medical testing laboratory specialized in molecular testing for cancers. Her research interests have remained focused on molecular oncology, molecular pathology, and molecular diagnostics, particularly concerning solid tumor malignancies. Through her dedicated work, Dr. Lau continues to contribute significantly to advancing our understanding of cancer biology and enhancing diagnostic approaches in oncology.
Prof. Ts Dr Goh Bey Hing
Head of Centre, Sunway Biofunctional Molecules Discovery Centre, Sunway University
To Update
Lecturer, Community Health Research Centre (ReaCH), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
Associate Professor Dr. Caryn Mei Hsien Chan is a psychologist renowned for her dedication to empowering and educating patients coping with chronic illnesses. Her research focus encompasses health promotion and the implementation of psychological strategies in the primary and secondary prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chan’s expertise is particularly prominent in the field of psychosocial oncology, where she delves into psychological issues surrounding cancer. Within this domain, she specializes in exploring adaptation and adherence to cancer treatment among patients and survivors, as well as examining coping mechanisms among caregivers. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chan serves as the principal lead for several large-scale prospective cohort studies, which meticulously monitor patients’ psychological well-being through comprehensive psychological assessments conducted shortly after diagnosis and treatment, and consistently at regular intervals in the subsequent months and years. Her work significantly contributes to advancing our understanding of the psychological aspects of cancer care and improving support systems for individuals affected by the disease
Dr Hadi Mohamad Abu Rasheed
Scientific Advisor, Qatar Cancer Society (QCS)
Dr Hadi is the Scientific Advisor and the Head of the Professional Development and Scientific Research Department and the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS). Dr Hadi is the representative member of the QCS in the National Cancer Governance Board in Qatar, the Gulf Federation for Cancer Control, the Union International for Cancer Control, the World Cancer Day Advisory Group, the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition, and the All.Can International. He is also an Adjunct Lecturer at the College of Health Sciences at The University of Doha for Science and Technology, preceptor at the Department of Public Health – College of Health Sciences – Qatar University, Psychology and Social Work Master’s Program at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, and Hamad Medical Corporation community medicine residency program.
Dr Hadi graduated from the University of Aleppo – Faculty of Medicine in Syria and completed his post-graduate training at the University of Iowa in the USA. Dr Hadi presented at more than 100 medical conferences and was involved as a Co-PI in research projects that have earnt grants of around half a million dollars in the USA and Qatar. Dr Hadi’s research interests are pediatric diseases, cancer burden, cancer education and awareness, continuing medical education, Knowledge Attitudes Perception studies related to cancer, quality of life of people living with cancer, health literacy, cancer survival studies, equity in cancer care, narrative medicine and cancer, palliative care, the role of civil societies in cancer control, social media and cancer awareness, and efficiency and efficacy in cancer control and public health.
Prof. Dato Dr Fitjerald Henry
Professor of Surgery, Department of Medical Education, Sunway University
Graduated from University Malaya in 1989. Obtained FRCS from University of Edinburgh. Subsequently subspecialized in Colorectal Surgery. Head of Surgical Department, Hospital Selayang from 2007-2019. Appointed National Head of Colorectal Surgery services and Head of training committee from 2014-2022. Head of National Perioperative Mortality review [POMR] 2021-2024 and Head of General Surgical services, Ministry of Health, Malaysia from April 2023-September 2024. Currently employed as Professor of Surgery in Sunway University. Passionate about improving outcomes in the management of malignancies, specifically Colorectal cancers. Pursuing research towards malignancies seen in younger patients and new therapeutic modalities. Collaborating with NCSM in screening for Colorectal cancers in view of improving early-stage diagnosis.
Dr Eliana binti Ahmad
Senior Assistant Director, Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health
Dr. Eliana binti Ahmad is a Public Health Medicine Specialist at the Ministry of Health Malaysia, where she currently leads the National Cancer Control Programmes as well as the Surveillance and Registry Unit for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). She holds a Doctorate in Public Health from the University of Malaya, and her professional work is centred on cancer prevention and control, alongside the epidemiological surveillance of NCDs. Dr. Eliana has been instrumental in formulating and implementing national strategies aimed at reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases, including the expansion of cancer screening programmes and the strengthening of disease surveillance systems. She is also actively involved in the Lung Health Initiative Malaysia, a comprehensive effort to improve lung health outcomes through integrated prevention, screening and early detection, diagnosis, treatment and management strategies. Her contributions to public health policy, research, and programme development continue to play a significant role in advancing Malaysia’s health system response to NCDs and in promoting evidence-based interventions at the national level.
Prof Anand Sachithanandan is a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon to Sunway Medical Center Subang Jaya Medical Center. He is the founding president of Lung Cancer Network Malaysia (LCNM), a disease-centric NGO dedicated to improving care and outcomes for lung cancer locally. He has championed and pioneered lung cancer screening in Malaysia including adoption of innovative AI-
enhanced imaging and use of biomarkers. A strong advocate for multi disciplinary care, under his leadership LCNM has developed several national firsts to enhance lung cancer care including a digital patient navigation guide, a patient counselling tool for specialist doctors and clinical practice guidelines. Prof Anand is a clinical professor at the School of Medical & Life Sciences, Sunway University and adjunct professor in the Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya.
Dr Suhana Binti Yusak
Physician (Radiotherapy & Oncology), Institut Kanser Negara
Prof Anand Sachithanandan is a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon to Sunway Medical Center Subang Jaya Medical Center. He is the founding president of Lung Cancer Network Malaysia (LCNM), a disease-centric NGO dedicated to improving care and outcomes for lung cancer locally. He has championed and pioneered lung cancer screening in Malaysia including adoption of innovative AI-
enhanced imaging and use of biomarkers. A strong advocate for multi disciplinary care, under his leadership LCNM has developed several national firsts to enhance lung cancer care including a digital patient navigation guide, a patient counselling tool for specialist doctors and clinical practice guidelines. Prof Anand is a clinical professor at the School of Medical & Life Sciences, Sunway University and adjunct professor in the Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya.
Dr Nur Fadhlina Abdul Satar (Dr Nina)
Clinical Oncology, Pantai Hospital
Dr. Fadhlina, fondly known as Dr. Nina, is a consultant oncologist at Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur. She was a senior lecturer at University Malaya’s Clinical Oncology Department, earning the Excellence Service Award in 2023. Trained at University College London and Barts NHS Trusts, UK, she holds a Master’s in Clinical Oncology. Passionate about medical education, she contributes to Cancer ECHO UM project and is principal investigator on international clinical trials. Notably, she won the highest research grant procured by University Malaya Medical Centre in 2021. In 2023, she won the Japan Society in Medical Oncology Rising Star in Asia Workshop in Japan. Dr. Nina actively publishes research and speaks at public forums on cancer awareness.
Dr Tan Chih Kiang
Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Picaso Hospital
Dr. Tan Chih Kiang is a consultant clinical oncologist at Picaso Hospital, Malaysia, with a strong commitment to improving cancer care. He holds an MBBS and a Master’s in Clinical Oncology from University Malaya and has gained extensive experience managing a wide range of cancers through evidence-based and patient-centered approaches. As the Honorary Secretary of the Malaysian Oncological Society, Dr. Tan works closely with peers to advance oncology education and research. He has contributed as a co-author to international clinical guidelines and participated in numerous clinical trials, taking on roles as both a principal investigator and sub-investigator. He also provides his expertise as an external reviewer for international medical journals. Dr. Tan played a key role in establishing stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) services in East Malaysia, where he treated the first SRS patient in Sarawak. His clinical interests span gastrointestinal cancers, with a focus on liver cancer, as well as breast, genitourinary, and gynaecological cancers. He values collaboration and continues to share his knowledge at regional and international conferences, contributing to the betterment of cancer care in Malaysia and beyond.
Dr Vijayan is a result-driven professional is interested in research, clinical teaching and pulmonary complex disease. Also, seeks the acquisition of knowledge through research findings and the use of such knowledge to bridge the gap between research findings and practical applications. Despite treating a wide range of respiratory diseases, he has a special interest in airway disease, complex pleural diseases and interventional pulmonology.
Dr Malwinder Singh Sandhu
Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr. Malwinder Singh graduated from Melaka Manipal Medical College in 2006 with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S.) degree. He also obtained Master of Clinical Oncology (M.Co) in 2015 from University Malaya. He received his training in stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT/SRS/SRT) at Tata Memorial Hospital in India and now specializes in Gamma Knife for brain tumours and SBRT for prostate and lung cancers. He has a special interest in breast, colon, lung, prostate and brain cancers. He has worked as an oncologist for the Ministry of Health at Hospital Sultan Ismail and Hospital Kuala Lumpur. He is currently a consultant clinical oncologist at Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur
Dr Teh Kok Hoi
Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist President, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (MASPHO)
Dr Teh Kok Hoi is a Paediatric Haematologist & Oncologist at the Paediatric Department of Hospital Tunku Azizah, Kuala Lumpur. He graduated from University of Malaya with a distinction in his MBBS degree and was awarded bronze medallion of the King Edward VII College of Medicine Alumni Association. He received his post-graduation MRCPCH (UK) certificate in Paediatrics before completing his subspecialty training in Paediatric Haematology & Oncology in Birmingham’s Children Hospital, United Kingdom. Dr Teh is passionate in childhood solid tumour and Langerhan’s Cell Histiocytosis. He is a member of the Technical Expert Working Group for Childhood Cancer of the Ministry of Health, a trainer for Paediatric Haematology and Oncology subspecialty fellowship program, an Educational Supervisor for Malaysian Paediatric Postgraduate training program and guest lecturer for Post-Basic Nursing Diploma in Paediatrics and Oncology. Dr Teh has been invited as a speaker at national and international oncology conferences. He has appeared at various mass media including radio, TV, Tik Tok, Facebook, and newspapers and in various languages to increase public awareness about childhood cancer. Apart from his dedication to clinical service, he also participates actively in clinical research and has more than 80 publications to date. His guided presentations have won the top three prizes at poster presentations of MASPHO’s annual scientific meetings every year since 2017. His team was winner of Strategic Innovative Project category at National QA Convention of the Ministry of Health in 2024. He was elected President of Malaysian Society of Paediatric Haematology & Oncology (MASPHO) for the last 4 terms since 2021. He is also an exco member of Persatuan Kebajikan Kanser Kanak-Kanak (PEKA).
Prof. Dr Chin Kin Fah
Chairman and Founding Director, Academy for Silent Mentor
Professor Dr. Chin Kin Fah is a distinguished laparoscopic surgeon based in Malaysia, known for his expertise in minimally invasive laparo-endoscopic surgery, surgical oncology, gastrointestinal surgery, bariatric and metabolic surgery, and clinical nutrition. He practices at prestigious hospitals, including Gleneagles Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, and others.
A University of Aberdeen alumnus, he completed his specialist training in the UK, followed by significant roles in Australia and the NHS before returning to Malaysia. As an educator, he has served as a dean at Taylor’s University and now holds professorial roles at UTAR and other institutions.
Prof. Dr. Chin is the founder of the Silent Mentor Programme, aiming to advance medical education and research by encouraging body donation. He also established the Academy for Silent Mentor and a Rapid Tissue Donation Programme for cancer research. His contributions are recognised globally, with multiple publications and leadership roles in various medical societies.
Dr Ros Suzanna Ahmad Bustamam
Clinical Oncology, Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Hospital Kuala Lumpur
TO UPDATE
Dr Kavinash Loganathan
Research Coordinator, Health Education, Literacy, Promotion and Policy (HELPP), National Cancer Society Malaysia
Dr Kavinash Loganathan is the Research Coordinator of the National Cancer Society of Malaysia. After completing his PhD, Dr Kavinash worked as a post-doctoral researcher at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS. As a recipient of the 2019 IBRO-APRC Exchange Fellowship, he has also worked at the Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre at the University of Melbourne. Dr Kavinash is interested in data-driven public health research focusing on overcoming barriers to equitable healthcare and is currently collaborating with public and private organizations in pursuit of universal health coverage.
Dr Jason Chin Yu Aun
Operations Lead, Medical Officer and Community Health, CARE Department, National Cancer Society Malaysia
Dr. Jason Chin Yu Aun, MBBS, leads operations at The National Cancer Society Malaysia, focusing on education, care, and support initiatives while managing the Quit Smoking Clinic. With extensive medical experience, including work in neonatal care and pediatrics, he advocates for early cancer detection and effective treatment. Dr. Jason is certified in Basic Life Support and Smoking Cessation, and his research interests center on the impact of smoking on cancer development and recovery. He actively participates in healthcare activities such as COVID-19 vaccination drives for the cancer community and serves as a speaker in cancer awareness forums. Additionally, he pioneers cancer screening programs and engages with the public to promote cancer education. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Health at the University of Malaya, Dr. Jason is dedicated to empowering individuals to take charge of their health for a better quality of life.
Dr Shumita Gunasagaran
Manager, Support Services, Support Department, National Cancer Society Malaysia
Dr. Shumita Gunasagaran graduated with Bachelor of Medical Sciences (M.D) from Universiti Malaysia Sabah in 2019. She later obtained Master of Public Health with Distinction from University of Glasgow, Scotland in 2022, with specialisation in Health Promotion. She has been actively involved in community outreach programmes during her undergraduate studies particularly in the rural areas of Sabah as a team leader, promoting equitable access to health education and screening to the people in Sabah. Her passion in community outreach programmes is reflected by her various professional experiences which include her role as Outreach Executive, ROSE Foundation, Malaysia from August 2022 until February 2023 and she subsequently joined National Cancer Society of Malaysia as Guided Patient Support Coordinator expanding her initiatives to support patients with cancer.
Prof. Dr Nirmala Bhoo-Pathy
Public Health Physician and Epidemiologist, University of Malaya (UM)
Professor Nirmala Bhoo-Pathy is a public health physician and epidemiologist with a career dedicated to advancing cancer care systems and improving life after cancer. Her research and policy advocacy support evidence-based strategies to bridge critical gaps in cancer care, particularly across low- and middle-income countries, where her work has driven meaningful change. She serves as a Commissioner on multiple Lancet Commissions, including the Lancet Commission on Women, Power, and Cancer, and the Lancet Oncology Commission on the Human Crisis of Cancer, reflecting her leadership in shaping global cancer policy.
In addition to her impactful research, Professor Nirmala is deeply committed to medical education. As an educator, she inspires undergraduate medical students and postgraduate students to view public health as a transformative discipline that extends beyond illness, fostering solutions that enhance the health and well-being of entire populations. She serves as the Coordinator of the Master of Public Health program at Universiti Malaya, shaping the next generation of public health leaders. Her leadership also led to the development and successful implementation of the Master of Epidemiology program in Universiti Malaya, further demonstrating her dedication to capacity-building in the field.
Recognized for her influence and contributions, Professor Nirmala was named one of Tatler Asia’s Most Influential, joining a distinguished cohort of prominent clinicians, business tycoons, and entertainers who are shaping society across diverse sectors.
Assoc. Prof. Dr Lim Ren Jye
Medical Director cum Integrative Medicine Consultant, Sunway TCM Centre
Associate Professor Dr. Lim Ren Jye is a licensed medical professional in both Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), making him one of the few in Malaysia with qualifications in both fields. With over 20 years of experience in integrative medicine, he specializes in T&CM. Dr. Lim currently serves as the Medical Director and T&CM Consultant at Sunway TCM Centre, where he has played a key role in expanding the center’s services across Malaysia, combining Western and Chinese medicine, particularly in clinical herbal oncology, to enhance patient care and outcomes.
Dr. Lim has held leadership roles, including Head of the T&CM Unit at the National Cancer Institute under Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, where he pioneered initiatives in herbal oncology and T&CM integration in cancer care. He is also a visiting lecturer at Universiti Teknologi MARA and the International Medical University, shaping the education of future healthcare professionals. With a PhD in Chinese Medicine from Nanjing University, Dr. Lim has published extensively in reputable journals. His work on integrating Chinese medicine in oncology has garnered international recognition, positioning him as a leading advocate for the advancement of integrative medicine in modern healthcare.
Assoc. Prof. Dr Tan Lu Ping
Head of Molecular Pathology Unit Adjunct Associate Professor, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR) Sunway University
Dr Tan Lu Ping is the Head of Molecular Pathology Unit, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research (IMR), Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). She earned her PhD in Medical Sciences from the University of Groningen, the Netherlands. Her Master and PhD studies were on solid tumours and lymphomas, with focus on cancer genomics and transcriptomics. Her research interests are mainly on cancer genomics and biomarkers for early detection, companion diagnostics and prognosis. In 2019 and 2017 respectively, she had contributed to the collaborative studies that evaluated the proposed WHO 1st International Standards for Cancer Genomes (2019) and WHO 1st International Reference Panel for genomic KRAS codons 12 and 13 mutations. Dr Tan is a member of the Young Scientists Network-Academy of Sciences Malaysia, Adjunct Associate Professor of Sunway University, Fellow of the Institute for Research, Development and Innovation, International Medical University and Assistant Head of the Precision Medicine Cluster, MOH Research grant. She is the key person overseeing the design, setup and functionality of genomics laboratories and core facilities in IMR. Currently she leads the bioinformatics team of the MyGENOM initiative for analysis of clinically relevant variants and is exploring the implementation of returning actionable test results to participants.
Prof. Dr Rakesh Naidu
Professor, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia
Dr. Rakesh Naidu is a Professor of Biomedical Sciences at the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences (JCSMHS), Monash University Malaysia. Prior to his current role, he served as a lecturer at the International Medical University and the Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. He teaches biochemistry, genetics, and cancer while conducting research in the molecular biology of cancer and cancer therapeutics, with a particular focus on drug discovery and development. He has successfully secured multiple internal and external research grants and has published extensively in peer-reviewed international and national journals, as well as book chapters on cancer. Over the years, he has supervised and continues to mentor numerous PhD and Master’s students. His research group investigates the derivatives and analogues of natural compounds, such as curcumin, to elucidate their molecular mechanisms. His team examines the anticancer properties of diarylpentanoids in human cancer cells, particularly in lung, colorectal, prostate, and breast cancers. Additionally, we explore combinatorial therapy to understand the synergistic effects of co-treatment with natural compounds, their derivatives or analogues, and chemotherapeutic agents to enhance anticancer efficacy. Utilizing ‘omics’ technologies, including transcriptomics and proteomics, we identify key mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins, and biological pathways modulated by these compounds.
Prof. Dr Ho Gwo Fuang
Professor and Senior Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Cengild G.I Medical Centre
Prof. Dr Ho Gwo Fuang is a clinical oncologist at Curie Oncology KL, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He was trained at University of St Andrews and Manchester University 1992-1998; Royal Liverpool Hospital NHS Trust, Barts and The London NHS Trust and The Royal Marsden NHS Trust 1999-2007. He attained his Certificate for Completion of Specialist Training (CCST) in 2007 and joined the Faculty of Medicine at Universiti Malaya 2007. He was a Professor of Clinical Oncology and head of Master of Clinical Oncology training programme 2021-2023. He was appointed Adjunct Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Mangalore, India and M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Tungku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia 2024. His research interests involve breast, gastrointestinal, and hepatobiliary cancers. He co-authored the Pan-Asian Adapted ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines for hepatocellular carcinoma (2020) and ASCO Resource Stratified Guideline for Early Detection for Colorectal Cancer (2019) and Treatment of Patients with Early-Stage Colorectal Cancer Resource Stratified Guideline (2019). He is involved in many national and international collaborative research work, as well as the training of new oncologists in Malaysia.
Assoc. Prof. Dr Ho Weang Kee
Associate Professor, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Nottingham University
Dr. Weang-Kee Ho is an Associate Professor at the School of Mathematical Sciences, University of Nottingham Malaysia, and a Visiting Scientist at Cancer Research Malaysia. Her research focuses on identifying the genetic and lifestyle determinants of non-communicable diseases. Funded by the Wellcome Trust and the MRC-ASM Newton-Ungku Omar Fund, Dr. Ho’s team builds breast cancer risk assessment tools for multi-ethnic Asian populations, integrating lifestyle factors, genetic information, and mammogram images. Additionally, supported by the Basser External Research Grant Program, Dr. Ho’s team conducts research on the identification of lifestyle and genetic modifiers of cancer risk in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers of Asian ancestry. Collaborating with academic and industry partners, the team also conducts studies to determine women’s health screening behaviour and cost-effective screening strategies in the context of low- and middle-income countries. Dr. Ho is a statistician by training and has been awarded the Loreal-UNESCO for Women in Science National Fellowship in 2018, the Loreal-UNESCO International Rising Talent award in 2019, and the Wellcome Trust Career Development Award in 2023.
Assoc. Prof. Dr Retnagowri Rajandram
Associate Professor, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya
Associate Professor Dr. Retnagowri Rajandram from Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya is an academic almost 15 years. She has extensive experience in publishing research manuscripts (>50 articles). She obtained her BSc (Hon I) and PhD from The University of Queensland (UQ), Australia in the area of cell and molecular biology. Currently she is UQ’s Honorary Associate Professor. She advocates for translational research and holds several international and national awards from private and public institutions. She has achieved several international and national awards from private and public institutions (e.g., 2017 UQ Alumni young distinguished award, the 2018 Malaysian Australian Alumni awards, The UM Excellence Award in 2019 and 2022.Retnagowri was part of the Steering Committee for the National Medical Postgraduate Training the Directors and Trainers for Malaysia between 2020 to 2024. She is also involved in educating Science-based Postgraduates, Malaysian Urologist, Cardiothoracic Surgeons and Oncologist.