We are pleased to announce the successful viva voce defence of Dr. Ellappa Ghanthan a/l Rajendran, who has completed his Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) at the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya. His dissertation, titled “Evaluation of Training Module for Precision Public Health Approach in Outbreak Management for Public Health Professionals in Malaysia”, represents a timely and impactful contribution to public health education and practice in Malaysia.
Summary of the Thesis
Dr Ellappa’s research focused on bridging the competency gap in Precision Public Health (PPH) among public health professionals in Malaysia. Recognising the underutilisation of data-driven tools in outbreak management, he developed and rigorously evaluated a structured training module using a sequential mixed-method design guided by the ADDIE model. The study included:
- A scoping review to map existing PPH training and competencies
- A baseline survey and expert interviews to identify contextual training needs
- Iterative module development including visual tools, simulations, and quizzes
- A quasi-experimental trial demonstrating significant and sustained improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of PPH
Participants in the intervention arm achieved median knowledge scores of 100%, showing the module’s strong impact on conceptual and practical competencies.
This work places Dr Ellappa at the forefront of capacity-building efforts for Malaysia’s public health workforce.
Contribution to Public Health
Dr Ellappa’s thesis directly addresses the growing need for data-driven outbreak response by equipping public health professionals with practical tools and knowledge. His work not only strengthens Malaysia’s outbreak preparedness but also offers a transferable framework adaptable to other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The study exemplifies how evidence-based education can close competency gaps, enhance decision-making during health crises, and foster system resilience.
Acknowledgement
We wish to acknowledge the invaluable guidance and mentorship provided by Dr. Ellappa’s supervisors, Assoc. Prof. Dr Farizah Mohd Hairi, Dr Rama Krishna Supramanian, and Dr Tengku Amatullah Madeehah T Mohd, whose expertise and support were instrumental in the completion of his thesis.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Professor Dr Kamarul Imran Musa (Universiti Sains Malaysia), the External Examiner, and Dr Bala Murali a/l Sundram, the Internal Examiner.
We would also like to thank the Committee of Examiners for their thorough evaluation and insightful feedback, including Professor Dr Lau Yee Ling, Chairperson of the viva voce session; Professor Dr. Shahrul Bahyah Kamaruzzaman, Deputy Dean (Postgraduate), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya; Professor Dr Jason Chuah, Senate Representative and Dean of the Faculty of Law, Universiti Malaya; and Professor Dr Victor CW Hoe, Head of Department, Social and Preventive Medicine.
Looking Ahead
Dr Ellappa’s work signals an important shift towards precision-oriented, data-literate public health leadership. As digital health, big data, and AI become increasingly integral to outbreak management, we look forward to his continued contributions in shaping adaptive, evidence-based public health systems, both nationally and regionally.
Congratulations once again, Dr Ellappa. Your dedication to advancing public health practice through education and innovation is both commendable and inspiring.
We wish you continued success in your journey as a scholar and practitioner committed to strengthening health systems for all.
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