What helps a postgraduate student make steady progress, and where is more support needed? These questions shaped a town hall organised by the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine (SPM), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, held at the Persatuan Alumni Universiti Malaya (PAUM).
Held on 30 October 2026, from 8.00 am to 2.00 pm, the session brought together PhD, Master of Medical Science and Master of Epidemiology students, alumni, programme coordinators and departmental staff. Attendance records documented 52 participants. The gathering offered students an opportunity to share their experiences and raise concerns directly with staff in an open, collegial setting.
In her presentation, Professor Dr Wong Li Ping emphasised the importance of learning from one another and ensuring that no student is left behind. The discussions connected the practical demands of research with the everyday experiences that shape postgraduate life. Research planning and communication with supervisors emerged as central themes. Students were encouraged to set realistic milestones, plan publications early and keep supervisors informed as their research develops. Sharing preliminary findings, presentation slides and results tables was highlighted as a useful way to sustain discussion and receive timely feedback.
Students also asked for clearer guidance on publication requirements, journal selection and candidature milestones. A practical workshop on journal indexing and eligibility was among the suggestions raised. Questions about research ethics covered review timelines, secondary-data studies and data collection outside Malaysia, underscoring the value of early advice from the relevant ethics authority.
Beyond academic matters, participants discussed parking, public transport and the cost of travelling to campus. International students described the challenges of finding accommodation, navigating administrative procedures and planning their studies in a new environment. Suggestions included more accessible orientation information, settling-in sessions and occasional check-ins on adjustment and well-being.
Graduate and student sharing added a personal dimension to the session. Experiences of managing research setbacks, building professional networks and seeking support offered practical lessons for others navigating postgraduate study. The discussions also acknowledged the demands faced by students balancing research with childcare and family responsibilities.
The session identified several areas for departmental consideration, from clearer publication and ethics guidance to stronger onboarding and peer support. Informal exchanges and networking gave participants further opportunities to connect, and overall, the town hall highlighted the value of listening to students’ issues and keeping communication open throughout the postgraduate journey.
This write-up was prepared by Dr Howie Lim Sin How from the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya.
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