I only decided to pursue a Master of Public Health (MPH) in my late 30s, after spending a decade working in clinical settings—first in public hospitals and later at a private health screening centre. Public Health hadn’t initially been a field of interest for me. However, over time, as I began to reflect on how I could better support patients at risk of non-communicable diseases, I recognised the need for a broader, macro-level approach to prevention. This shift in perspective led me to explore the field of public health.
Embarking on my MPH journey during the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging, yet it provided unique opportunities. The pandemic opened doors for me to explore non-clinical roles, particularly when ProtectHealth Corporation (a company established under the Ministry of Health) actively sought staff for the implementation of national COVID-19 vaccination among private health practitioners.
I began in the Strategic Purchasing Department, where the foundational knowledge from the Health Economics course during my MPH studies proved highly relevant. This role was enlightening, offering insights into how a national health program is planned, designed, and implemented while addressing the interests of various stakeholders and overcoming associated challenges.
This early experience in my career transition also strengthened my commitment to the field and highlighted the importance of learning not only from public sector experts and academics but also from professionals in the private health sector. Public health, as I’ve learned, is truly a whole-of-society and multisectoral endeavour.
My current role as a Consultant of Health, Nutrition and Population at the World Bank Group, based in Malaysia, is to provide technical and implementation support for conducting the study on Supply and Demand for Healthcare Facility, Equipment and Human Resource Capacity in Malaysia. The MPH degree from the Universiti Malaya has been crucial in opening doors to invaluable opportunities, allowing me to work with and learn from esteemed professionals in an international organisation.
I am deeply grateful to my supervisor, Associate Professor Dr Tharani Loganathan, Professor Dr Moy Foong Ming, Professor Dr Ng Chui Wan, and many other lecturers. Their support and knowledge made my MPH studies both inspiring and enjoyable. Additionally, the connections I’ve built with my batchmates and the lasting relationships with alumni have remained invaluable even after graduation.
Although public health wasn’t initially a top choice for those of us in the private sector, and I wasn’t certain where the path would lead when I applied for the master’s program, I’ve learned that opportunities often arise when you take a step forward, make a change, and give your best at each stage.
This is especially true in Public Health, a field so diverse that anyone with interest and passion can find a role, whether in the public or private sector, contributing to the well-being of the community.
Dr Hue Hwa Ching
MPH (2019) Alumni
Consultant
Health, Nutrition and Population
East Asia and Pacific
World Bank Group.
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