From his student days at IPB University, Indonesia, to his current role at an animal hospital in Selangor, Dr Jason Jeremiah has seen firsthand what it takes to turn a love for animals into a meaningful career.&nbsp;<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0b46aad082_1760605290.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" />Five years of hard work, heart, and hands-on learning later, he&rsquo;s now living his dream of helping animals every single day.<a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/inside-the-vet-world-what-you-might-not-know-about-this-profession">🐱Haven&rsquo;t caught part 1 yet? Head over here and give it a read first!</a> <h3>1. First of all, what inspired you to choose veterinary medicine as your field of study?</h3>For me personally, I guess I always liked animals. And naturally, when you like animals, people tend to suggest veterinary medicine. So from a young age, I already had the idea that this was what I wanted to do. <h3>2. How was your journey in vet school, and what were the biggest lessons you learned?</h3>Vet school is a long journey. Mine took about five and a half years in Indonesia. Honestly, it&rsquo;s not about being a genius; it&rsquo;s about hard work. There&rsquo;s a lot of studying, writing reports, and just pushing through. If you&rsquo;re disciplined and consistent, you&rsquo;ll get through it.The first couple of years are heavy on theory. There are lots of reading and understanding the foundations. The hands-on part really comes in later, where you start applying what you&rsquo;ve learned. Both are equally important, and together they prepare you to handle real cases with confidence. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0b4b4ad6bb_1760605364.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><h3>3. What are some misconceptions people often have about your job?</h3>I think there&rsquo;s sometimes a negative stigma that vets are only in it for the money. From my experience, that&rsquo;s far from the truth. A big part of the cost actually goes into medication, equipment, and simply keeping the clinic running.Unlike human hospitals that receive government support, most veterinary clinics are private practices. So the fees we charge aren&rsquo;t about profit; they&rsquo;re about making the work sustainable while still providing the level of care pets deserve. <h3>4. What is a typical day in your clinic like, and what are the most common cases you handle?</h3>A typical day usually starts with ward rounds. We check on the animals, give treatments and make sure they&rsquo;re stable. After that, we move on to procedures, and later in the day, we handle consultations.As one of the more junior doctors, I spend much of my time managing the wards, while senior vets handle consultations and surgeries. It&rsquo;s fast-paced, but every case teaches you something new. <h3>5. Can you share a touching or memorable story that reminded you why you became a vet?</h3>I remember treating a Cocker Spaniel named Chino. While he was in the hospital, he refused to eat, so I started bringing him some boiled chicken, and that finally got him eating again. He recovered well and went home, but what really touched me was a few months later, when he came back for a check-up.&nbsp;The moment he saw me across the hospital, he started whining and wagging before I even reached him. Moments like that remind me exactly why I became a vet. <h3>6. How do you manage the emotional side of working with both animals and their owners?</h3>Pet owners are often deeply attached to their animals. For many, they&rsquo;re like family or even like children. That makes it especially hard when we have to share bad news.As a vet, the most important thing is to stay calm. Even if the owner is upset, you have to keep a steady temperament, reassure them and guide them through the situation. It&rsquo;s not always easy, but being that calm presence helps both the pet and the owner. <h3>7. In your view, how is the pet care industry in Malaysia evolving, and what opportunities does that create for future vets?</h3>The pet care industry in Malaysia is definitely growing, and so is the demand for vets. If it&rsquo;s something you&rsquo;re passionate about, it can absolutely be a viable career. Right now, there&rsquo;s still a shortage, and a lot of employers are actively looking for vets, so the opportunities are definitely there.Dr Jason&rsquo;s story reminds us that veterinary medicine is not just a science, but a calling built on compassion, patience and the quiet joy of helping those who can&rsquo;t speak for themselves.

Inside the Vet World Part II: Dr Jason’s Journey from Passion to Practice

Dr Sharon Seetha graduated with a DVM from UPM and is now a veterinary doctor at Melawati Urban Veterinary Clinic, with over 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine.&nbsp; <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0afdc5a8f4_1760604124.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" />From a childhood fascination with animals to the realities of running her own clinic, Dr Sharon shares her wisdom, experiences and heartfelt reflections on life as a small-animal vet.<a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/inside-the-vet-world-what-you-might-not-know-about-this-profession">🐱Haven&rsquo;t caught part 1 yet? Head over here and give it a read first!</a><h4>&nbsp;</h4><h3>1. First of all, what inspired you to choose veterinary medicine as your field of study?</h3>For me, the spark came when I was about seven years old. My mother would always have National Geographic on TV, and that really nurtured my love for animals.&nbsp;I was also quite a shy kid, so in my young mind I thought, &lsquo;If I work with animals, I won&rsquo;t have to deal with people.&rsquo; Of course, little did I know that working with small animals also means working closely with their owners too!&nbsp;<h3>2. How was your journey in vet school, and what were the biggest lessons you learned?</h3>Honestly, I loved what I was doing, but vet school was tough. Compared to students from other faculties, we barely had holidays. Most of our semester breaks were filled with practical training. It felt like I was always jumping from one thing to the next, with very little time for myself.Unlike medical doctors who focus only on humans, we had to learn the anatomy and physiology of countless animals. It was exhausting, but looking back, every bit of that hardship was 100% worthwhile.&nbsp;<h3>3. What made you choose to work in a clinic setting after vet school?</h3>After graduating, one of the clinical heads at the university offered me a position as a clinician at the small-animal clinic. At the time, I actually thought I wanted to go into radiology. But since the opportunity came up, I decided to take it.That&rsquo;s really where my interest grew. Over time, I realised how much I enjoyed working with cats and dogs, and that&rsquo;s how I found myself drawn into the clinic setting.&nbsp;<h3>4. How do you manage the emotional side of working with both animals and their owners?</h3>Whenever I&rsquo;m treating a client&rsquo;s pet, I see it as my own. While they&rsquo;re with me, I give them the same care I would for my own animals.&nbsp;If I ever feel that a case is beyond what I can do, I don&rsquo;t hesitate to refer them to a reputable hospital where I know the pet can get the care it needs.Of course, there are moments that make me sad, but I try not to let it overwhelm me. Most importantly, I take time to speak with the owners, reassure them, and share in what they&rsquo;re feeling.<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0b0d37e1bd_1760604371.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Dr Sharon (middle) with her fellow staff.</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;<h3>5. For vets who aspire to run their own practice, what was the most challenging part of opening your own clinic?</h3>The first challenge, of course, is the medicine itself. Before you even think about opening a clinic, you need to be confident in handling cases and have a solid foundation of knowledge.&nbsp;These days, new vets usually work a couple of years under mentorship before starting their own practice, and I think that&rsquo;s a good thing. It helps you build the right skills and confidence.And once you open a clinic, you&rsquo;re not just treating animals, you&rsquo;re also leading a team. Managing staff can be tricky, especially with different generations having different expectations and working styles. You need to learn how to balance what your team needs with what the clinic requires.&nbsp;That part, I&rsquo;d say, is just as important as the medicine.&nbsp;<h3>6. What is the most rewarding part of being a veterinarian for you personally?</h3>For me, the most rewarding part is knowing I&rsquo;m exactly where I&rsquo;m meant to be. I honestly can&rsquo;t picture myself as an accountant, a lawyer, or even a medical doctor.&nbsp;This feels like the right place for me, even after all these years. Of course, the journey hasn&rsquo;t been easy, but doing what I love makes it all worthwhile.&nbsp;<h3>7. What advice would you give to students who are thinking about vet school but aren&rsquo;t sure what to expect?</h3>I&rsquo;d tell them to really think it through, because vet school is a five-year commitment and it takes a lot out of you.&nbsp;Unlike other courses, where students get proper semester breaks, we usually go straight into practical training. That means early mornings to evenings, with a lot of travelling and very little rest.The subjects themselves can be tough too. There are so many species to learn, and the exams test you in every way. So your heart really needs to be in it. If you&rsquo;re passionate, you&rsquo;ll push through, but you have to be prepared for the sacrifices.&nbsp;<h3>8. In your view, how is the pet care industry in Malaysia evolving, and what opportunities does that create for future vets?</h3>These days, more people are keeping pets, and you can see small animal clinics mushrooming everywhere. On the positive side, it means pet owners have more options and access to care.But at the same time, it can be challenging for smaller practices to sustain themselves, because when there are too many clinics in the same area, clients naturally get spread out.However, there&rsquo;s still a very clear shortage of vets in Malaysia, especially in fields beyond small animal practice, like livestock and public health. So while the pet care industry is growing, there are also many opportunities for future vets to explore different sectors where their expertise is really needed.

Inside the Vet World Part II: Dr Sharon on Finding Her Calling

For Dr Sam Mohan Aruputham, becoming a veterinarian wasn&rsquo;t always part of the plan. Today, he serves as Clinical Director at Windsor Animal Hospital, Penang, one of the few 24-hour veterinary hospitals in Malaysia, where he leads a team dedicated to saving lives around the clock.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0ad6122d39_1760603489.png" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /> We spoke with Dr Sam to learn how he found his calling in veterinary medicine, what it really takes to work in a high-pressure clinic environment, and how Malaysia&rsquo;s pet care industry is evolving faster than ever before.<a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/inside-the-vet-world-what-you-might-not-know-about-this-profession">🐱Haven&rsquo;t caught part 1 yet? Head over here and give it a read first!</a>&nbsp;<h3>1. First of all, what inspired you to choose veterinary medicine as your field of study?</h3>Initially, I actually wanted to be an English teacher. Both my parents were English teachers, and I really admired the profession. After Form 6, I even applied to Universiti Malaya and NUS for English programmes, and I got accepted.&nbsp;But when I told my father, he wasn&rsquo;t happy. Even though he was proud to be a teacher, he also understood the frustrations of the profession and wanted something different for me.So, using my Form 5 results, I applied to UPM for a Diploma in Animal Health. I did well in the diploma, and through UPM&rsquo;s promotion pathway, top students could choose their degree. That&rsquo;s how I ended up pursuing Veterinary Science, and I&rsquo;ve never looked back since. <h3>2. How was your journey in vet school, and what lessons did you take away from it?</h3>Coming from school, where everything is structured and disciplined, university life was a complete shift. The biggest lesson was independence. Suddenly, you&rsquo;re living on your own, responsible for everything, from your time and studies to your own well-being.&nbsp;That transition taught me accountability and self-management. Looking back, that independence prepared me more for real life than any textbook ever could. <h3>3. What led you to focus on small animal practice instead of other veterinary fields?</h3>When I first graduated, people assumed vets knew everything. Back then, we were trained as generalists. You had to be ready for chickens, buffalo, small animals, anything.&nbsp;My path wasn&rsquo;t straightforward either. I wanted to be a horse vet, but that field was closed to overseas graduates. Then I tried working in a zoo, but with one vet for thousands of animals, it was emotionally overwhelming.Farm work didn&rsquo;t suit me either, so I joined the government service in parasitology. But the slow career progression pushed me toward the private sector, and later into sales.&nbsp;Eventually, I found my place in clinical practice. And I learned that being a vet isn&rsquo;t just about medical skill, it&rsquo;s also about business sense, communication and resilience. Some vets are great surgeons, while others are great communicators. In the end, knowing your strengths and accepting your weaknesses is how you truly grow in this profession. <h3>4. What are some misconceptions you face in small animal practice?</h3>A big one is that because vets love animals, we should treat them with blood, sweat and tears, regardless of cost.&nbsp;In small animal practice, the most common misunderstanding is about our fees. Many pet owners don&rsquo;t realise that veterinary care involves real costs: specialised equipment, skilled staff, lab tests, and time.Sometimes, owners rush in saying, &ldquo;Do whatever you can, my cat is dying!&rdquo; So we perform diagnostics (blood work, ultrasound, X-rays) to find out what&rsquo;s wrong. But when they see the bill &mdash;RM200 for an X-ray or RM150 for blood tests &mdash;they question why it&rsquo;s so expensive.&nbsp;The truth is, our work is every bit as complex as human medicine. Loving animals doesn&rsquo;t mean we can treat them for free. <h3>5. What&rsquo;s a typical day like at your clinic, and what kinds of cases do you see most often?</h3>In a small clinic, you usually handle consultations, vaccinations and routine treatments; no lengthy hospitalisations or major surgeries. But at Windsor Animal Hospital, which runs 24 hours a day, it&rsquo;s very different.We work in shifts, and the night shift alone can see five to ten emergency cases like accidents, poisonings, critical illnesses and all things that need immediate care. The night vet stabilises the patients, and by morning, the surgery and ICU teams take over. We even have incubators and full-time monitoring, because clients now expect the same level of care they&rsquo;d get in a human hospital.There are only a handful of 24-hour vet hospitals in Malaysia, which are mostly in KL and Penang. Outside these areas, if a pet emergency happens at night, owners often have to wait until morning. Sadly, by then, it&rsquo;s sometimes too late. <h3>6. How do you cope with the emotional side of the job, especially when you can&rsquo;t save every patient?</h3>For many owners, their pets are family. So when we can&rsquo;t save them, it hits hard for them and for us. It&rsquo;s similar to paediatrics, where babies can&rsquo;t explain what&rsquo;s wrong, and neither can animals. When a patient dies in your care, it can be devastating.That&rsquo;s why I always tell young vets: it takes at least three years before you&rsquo;re truly ready for clinical practice. You need time to build emotional strength.&nbsp;Euthanasia, for example, is one of the hardest parts of the job. Some vets just can&rsquo;t bring themselves to do it. Ultimately, it comes down to conviction. We all want to heal, but sometimes healing means letting go. That&rsquo;s one of the toughest truths in this field.<h3>7. The pet care industry in Malaysia seems to be growing quickly. What changes have you seen, and what does that mean for future vets?</h3>The industry has grown tremendously, especially after COVID. More people adopted pets, and that created a surge in demand for veterinary services. Small animal clinics are thriving now, but at the same time, the livestock and public health sectors remain equally important.Government roles, like those in the Department of Veterinary Services, might not seem glamorous, but they&rsquo;re crucial. They ensure food safety, control diseases and protect public health. That&rsquo;s where the One Health concept comes in: recognising that human, animal and environmental health are interconnected.So whether you choose private practice, research or public service, there&rsquo;s room for everyone. The veterinary field in Malaysia is expanding fast, and for passionate, resilient vets, the opportunities are endless.Dr Sam&rsquo;s story reminds us that being a veterinarian goes far beyond treating animals. It&rsquo;s about resilience, compassion and finding meaning in both the joys and heartbreaks of the job.

Inside the Vet World Part II: Dr Sam on Passion, Perseverance and the Changing Face of Pet Care

For Assoc. Prof. Dr Siti Zubaidah Ramanoon, animals have always been more than just subjects of study; they&rsquo;ve been a lifelong passion.&nbsp;Now serving as an Associate Professor &amp; former Head of the Dept of Farm and Exotic Animal Medicine at UPM, Dr Siti&rsquo;s career spans from hands-on livestock care to groundbreaking research in antimicrobial resistance.With a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from UPM, a Master of Science (MSc) from the University of Guelph, and a PhD from Murdoch University, she continues to inspire both the veterinary community and the next generation of animal health professionals. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0a73b66c57_1760601915.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" />We interviewed Dr Siti to learn more about her journey, her research and what drives her passion for teaching and animal welfare.<a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/inside-the-vet-world-what-you-might-not-know-about-this-profession">🐱Haven&rsquo;t caught part 1 yet? Head over here and give it a read first!</a>&nbsp;<h3>1. First of all, what inspired you to choose veterinary medicine as your field of study?</h3>My first memorable experience with animals was when I was around seven or eight years old. My family had two female cattle; we named one of them Kuntung.&nbsp;She was used for transportation, but for me, she felt like my first pet. That early bond sparked something in me. I think that was the triggering moment that led me to pursue veterinary medicine.&nbsp;<h3>2. Vet school is known to be tough. What was your journey like, and what lessons did you take away from it?</h3>My journey definitely had its ups and downs. The first three years were especially challenging. Anatomy, for example, was one of the hardest subjects. So many bones, muscles, tendons, and vessels to memorise!Then came small animal medicine in the third year, which was equally demanding. But despite the difficulties, I truly enjoyed the journey. Every challenge made me more resilient and deepened my understanding of animal science.&nbsp;<h3>3. What are some misconceptions people often have about your job?</h3>At the start of my career, people were often surprised to see a female vet handling large animals like cows or buffalo.&nbsp;My first surgery case at UPM was on a buffalo calf with a hernia. Many expected a male vet to take on such cases, but once they (farmers) saw how we worked and communicated, they began to trust us.I always say, &ldquo;Small but mighty.&rdquo; Size doesn&rsquo;t matter. There&rsquo;s always a method or technique to safely handle animals. I&rsquo;ve also always been more comfortable with cows than cats, so that&rsquo;s probably why my field leans toward livestock medicine.&nbsp;<h3>4. You&rsquo;re currently leading important research in livestock health. What discoveries are you most excited about right now?</h3>Right now, I&rsquo;m working on a project involving Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in dairy cows. It&rsquo;s part of the broader issue of antibiotic resistance, a growing global concern.This isn&rsquo;t just about animal health; it&rsquo;s also a public health issue. Antimicrobial-resistant genes can transfer between animals and humans, so studying this helps us understand and mitigate those risks.<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0a792e94ab_1760602002.png" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Dr Siti (second from the left) during a networking session with industry peers.</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;<h3>5. In your view, how does veterinary research help solve national or even global challenges?</h3>Veterinary research plays a big role in national safety and food security. For example, our research helps farmers recognise problems like lameness in livestock, which can affect an animal&rsquo;s health, milk yield and reproductive performance.&nbsp;When we help farmers manage these issues, we&rsquo;re not just improving animal welfare, we&rsquo;re strengthening the livestock industry and, ultimately, contributing to national food security.&nbsp;<h3>6. You&rsquo;ve mentored countless vet students over the years. What gives you the greatest satisfaction as an educator?</h3>Teaching gives me a real sense of achievement. I teach veterinary epidemiology, and it&rsquo;s incredibly rewarding to see students apply what they learn to real-world problems.&nbsp;When they understand how to use epidemiology to improve diagnosis accuracy, design research or analyse data, it feels like I&rsquo;ve passed on something valuable.Seeing them grow into confident veterinarians or researchers reminds me that my efforts have helped shape the future of animal health. That, to me, is the most fulfilling part of being an educator.Through her work in teaching, research, and livestock medicine, Dr Siti exemplifies how veterinary science extends far beyond the clinic.

Inside the Vet World Part II: Dr Siti on Livestock, Learning and Research

Former Head of Epidemiology, Veterinary Disease Control and Biosecurity Division at the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) Malaysia, Dr Maswati Mat Amin, has dedicated her career to protecting both animal and human health.&nbsp;With a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and Master of Science (MSc) from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), she offers a wealth of insight into the world of veterinary science, from classroom lessons to disease control on a national scale.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0a3913ab4d_1760600977.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" />We interviewed Dr Maswati to learn more about her inspiring journey, the realities of being a government veterinarian and how her work continues to shape Malaysia&rsquo;s animal health and public safety landscape.<a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/inside-the-vet-world-what-you-might-not-know-about-this-profession">🐱Haven&rsquo;t caught part 1 yet? Head over here and give it a read first!</a> <h3>1. First of all, what inspired you to choose veterinary medicine as your field of study?</h3>I chose to study veterinary science because of my deep affection for animals, especially cats. My love for them sparked my interest in understanding animal health and caring for their well-being.&nbsp;<h3>2. What was your vet school journey like, and what lessons stayed with you the most?</h3>It wasn&rsquo;t an easy path. Earning the degree required a lot of sacrifice, time and effort. While other students could go home during semester breaks, veterinary students often couldn&rsquo;t because the course was demanding.&nbsp;You need strong determination and focus, as it covers a wide range of animals and fields related to health, production, and even human and environmental aspects. The biggest lesson I learned was the importance of perseverance and the value of hard work.&nbsp;<h3>3. People often imagine vets only treat pets. What&rsquo;s the biggest misconception about your profession?</h3>Many people think veterinarians only treat pets, but that&rsquo;s far from true. There are many fields within veterinary medicine, including government service, public health, academia, research, zoo and wildlife care, livestock industries, consulting, and even entrepreneurship.&nbsp;It&rsquo;s a diverse and dynamic profession with many pathways beyond small animal practice.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0a4c406a0b_1760601284.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><h3>4. How does your work protect not just animals, but people too?</h3>Our work extends to public health. We monitor and control zoonotic diseases, those that can spread from animals to humans, such as rabies.&nbsp;We also ensure that food from animal sources, such as meat and milk, is safe for consumption through strict inspections and regulations at farms, slaughterhouses, and processing plants.&nbsp;<h3>5. Can you share a memorable experience from handling an outbreak?</h3>One of the most unforgettable moments was during the Nipah virus outbreak. Witnessing the death of animals on affected farms, and later learning that a farmer from one of those farms also passed away due to the same virus, was deeply impactful.&nbsp;It reminded me of how interconnected animal and human health truly are.&nbsp;<h3>6. What skills are most important in your line of work?</h3>Being a government vet requires multidisciplinary skills. You need to adapt to various roles, from lab work and disease monitoring to managing animal industry development and leadership positions.&nbsp;Over time, you build expertise in technical, analytical and managerial areas.&nbsp;<h3>7. How do you balance animal welfare with economic or public health concerns, such as culling during outbreaks?</h3>Culling is always a difficult but sometimes necessary decision during outbreaks. At DVS, we ensure that such actions are carried out in the most humane and scientifically justified way possible, taking into account both animal welfare and public safety.&nbsp;<h3>8. What is the most rewarding part of being a veterinarian for you personally?</h3>The most rewarding part is the satisfaction of seeing sick animals recover after treatment. It&rsquo;s also fulfilling to contribute to Malaysia&rsquo;s animal industry, whether directly or indirectly, by supporting its growth and maintaining its health standards.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68f0a594653e8_1760601492.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><h3>9. And finally, what advice would you give to students who are thinking about vet school but aren&rsquo;t sure what to expect?</h3>Do your research before enrolling. Understand what the course involves. It&rsquo;s not easy, and you&rsquo;ll need focus, discipline and resilience. However, if you&rsquo;re passionate about animals, it will all be worth it in the end.

Inside the Vet World Part II: Dr Maswati on the Realities of Veterinary Work

Most of us only think about visiting the dentist when pain strikes. But what if dentistry were never just about fixing a toothache? What if it were about rebuilding confidence, nurturing empathy, and protecting health in ways you never imagined? For these students and practitioners, dentistry is not just a profession, but a whole journey anchored in compassion, purpose, and impact. Here&rsquo;s their story.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d7cc19df7_1760090060.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Clinical dental practice emphasising precision and care.</figcaption></figure><h2>From a Childhood Dream to a Real-Life Profession</h2>Not everyone knows their calling from a young age. For some, it&rsquo;s clear from the start; for others, it unfolds through exploration and self-discovery. Along the way, they discover where their passion truly lies, and how they can pursue a career that is both of their interest and helps make a difference in the world.&nbsp;For Sharony Thomas, also known as Sharunnie, a fourth-year student at Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM), dentistry wasn&rsquo;t always the dream. Initially, she was drawn to pharmacy, captivated by her love for chemistry and maths. The subjects had felt like the perfect fit for her. But as she began to explore the field, Sharunnie quickly realised that pharmacy was just not her calling. &ldquo;Pharmacists don&rsquo;t interact much with patients, and I couldn&rsquo;t see myself just standing there giving out medicine all day,&rdquo; she reflects. As an extrovert, having that profound interaction with other people is what makes a career all the more thrilling. So she then found herself torn between her initial expectations and a growing sense of discontent.&nbsp;The moment of clarity came when she started working at a dental clinic. That was when she realised the weight of dentists&rsquo; responsibilities, and how a single check-up can change everything. The ability to connect with patients and provide care that made a difference ignited something in her. As she observed the daily interactions between dentists and their patients, she felt an overwhelming desire to help and be part of something more fulfilling.Though she&rsquo;s still early in her studies, Sharunnie already envisions a future where she can practice dentistry independently. This is what she looks forward to the most in pursuing a career in dentistry: her educational background finally being put to use: doing dentures, restorations, extractions, and hands-on patient care.&nbsp;Her advice for anyone considering dentistry is simple: &ldquo;Choose wisely and follow your instincts. If you&rsquo;re truly passionate about dentistry, go for it&mdash;you won&rsquo;t regret it.&rdquo; When Sharunnie decided to pursue dentistry instead of pharmacy, she just felt it in her bones. There was no explosive incident that pushed her into dentistry. She just knew.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d81f927b3_1760090143.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Sharunnie, a fourth-year dentistry student at Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM).</figcaption></figure>On the other hand, Nur Bahirah Athirah, now a graduate from UiTM Sungai Buloh, has always dreamed of becoming a dentist. What started as simply playing dentist simulator games for fun quickly turned into a deep fascination with the field. "I was always fascinated by how much impact dentists could have on a person&rsquo;s life," she says, reflecting on her early interest. Starting at just 19, Bahirah entered the field with an uncontainable enthusiasm, ready to dive headfirst into her dream. "Entering as a teenager and graduating as a young adult at 24 was a transformation that shaped me in ways I never expected," she shares.However, it wasn&rsquo;t all smooth sailing. Bahirah admits that her journey was a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of doubt and exhaustion. "It was tough to keep that same spirit throughout five challenging years," she confesses. "Still, I genuinely believe I grew into a completely new version of myself." Her growth was deeply personal, as she faced the highs and lows of dental school, pushing herself beyond limits she once thought were unreachable.A defining moment in her journey, Bahirah recalls, was her internship experience. "We are only eligible to go through internships right after we unofficially graduate from dental school, while waiting for our posting known as NDOP (New Dental Officer Programme)," she explains. "At this stage, we&rsquo;re labelled as 'GAP' doctors doing internships&mdash;essentially a walk-through of working life, oral maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) edition." This internship phase was an eye-opener for Bahirah, showing her that dentistry is an ongoing journey of perfecting technical skills. "It was such an eye-opening experience," she says. "The hands-on work, like removing wisdom teeth, felt like unlocking a new skill set. I had never experienced that level of responsibility during my undergraduate years."While her internship definitely helped broaden her skill set, the community she sought comfort in became the beacon of her passion for dentistry. Bahirah&rsquo;s time in OMFS allowed her to work alongside specialists and postgraduates, who taught her things she could never learn through textbooks. "I&rsquo;m especially grateful for the passionate specialists, particularly my supervisor, as well as the OMFS postgraduates who never failed to share their knowledge with us," she recalls. "Their patience, guidance, and willingness to teach made the learning process enjoyable and motivated me to push myself further."Reflecting on the internship and her journey, Bahirah says, &ldquo;Stepping out of my comfort zone in all these ways was both terrifying and unforgettable. But looking back, it&rsquo;s these moments that I&rsquo;m most proud of, because they pushed me to grow into a stronger, more confident version of myself."<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d8a1a7ef4_1760090273.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Bahirah, a dentistry graduate from UiTM Sungai Buloh.</figcaption></figure><h2>Dentistry Through the Looking Glass</h2>One of the biggest misconceptions about dentistry is that it&rsquo;s just about teeth. But as Niroshini Illesha Naidu, a dentist currently in private practice, points out, that couldn&rsquo;t be further from the truth. "Many people think all we do is look at teeth, but in reality, there are so many different types of treatments and procedures," she says. As a family dentist, Niroshini treats patients of all ages, each with their own unique needs and concerns. Tailoring treatments to the individual&mdash;whether it's easing a child's fear of the dentist or addressing a senior patient's specific dental health needs&mdash;is no small feat. The complexity lies in connecting with each patient on a personal level and creating a treatment plan that truly works for them. It requires not only technical expertise but a deep empathy and understanding of their situation. This level of care, attention, and adaptation is what makes dentistry such a respectable and rewarding profession.<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d91773590_1760090391.jpg" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Niroshini, a dentistry graduate from Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia, now a dentist practising in a private clinic.</figcaption></figure>Bahirah further challenges the common myth that dentistry is an &ldquo;easier&rdquo; path compared to medicine. "Dentistry isn&rsquo;t the 'easy alternative' to becoming a doctor," she says firmly. "It requires just as much dedication, skill, and resilience." Unlike popular belief, dentistry is far from simplistic. The oral cavity is complex and intricately linked to the rest of the body. "When people say it's easier than medicine, they underestimate the level of expertise needed," she adds. Just as Niroshini points out, Bahirah acknowledges that dentistry requires much more than technical ability. It involves a balance of expertise and empathy, making it far more complex and meaningful than many realise.&nbsp;Niroshini&rsquo;s experience in both private practice and government work further highlights how dentistry goes far beyond what most people imagine. "Oral cancer can start of as an unhealed ulcer that patients don&rsquo;t worry much about until it gets worse," she says, illustrating how dentists are often the first professionals to detect serious health issues before they become life-threatening. While ulcers and lip cuts may seem normal at first glance, it could just be the starting point of a chronic illness. Because of its commonness, many would simply turn a blind eye, underestimating its significance, which allows the disease to further progress unchecked.Through these insights, it&rsquo;s clear that dentistry isn&rsquo;t just teeth, teeth, teeth. In dentistry, the learning never stops, and every patient presents a new challenge, a new opportunity to make a difference. It&rsquo;s a meticulous profession, definitely. But it&rsquo;s equally rewarding and exciting in the best way possible.&nbsp;<h2>The Best Part About Dentistry&nbsp;</h2>Despite the complexity of every case, its rewards lie far beyond drills and dental chairs. At its core, dentistry is about alleviating pain, fostering trust, and bringing about positive change in people&rsquo;s lives. For students and practitioners alike, the journey reveals a profession bound by empathy and compassion.&nbsp;"Being able to relieve patients from their pain and discomfort is definitely the best thing. It keeps me going in this field,&rdquo; Niroshini shares. Helping patients with dental anxiety and watching them grow more comfortable with dental treatments is another aspect of the profession that she finds deeply fulfilling. Bahirah also attests to the satisfaction of alleviating people&rsquo;s pain, which is what makes her keen on paediatric dental care. We all know how common dentophobia is and how this fear contributes to the neglect of oral hygiene. Thus, Bahirah aspires to dismantle this common phobia through patience, gentle reassurance, and creating a safe and welcoming environment for her future patients.&nbsp;Of course, the joy of alleviating a patient&rsquo;s pain is an incomparable feeling. Still, dentistry is just as exciting as it is satisfying. What you learn in the classroom stays with you because you are constantly applying that theoretical knowledge in real-life treatments, where every decision matters and every skill is put to the test. "Dentistry, in its essence, is very much a 'learn and apply' kind of course," Bahirah says. "You don&rsquo;t just sit in lectures absorbing information; you actually carry it with you into the clinics and apply it directly. Knowledge isn&rsquo;t just memorised; it&rsquo;s lived, experienced, and eventually, it becomes second nature.&rdquo;<h2>The Future of Dentistry</h2>While many dental students dream of opening their own practice, the landscape is ever-evolving, which means that new opportunities are always emerging. Niroshini recognises the competitive nature of the field, noting, "Currently, in our country, there are already way too many dental clinics. In one row of shops, there could be three or more dental clinics." However, this competition is not a barrier, but rather a reflection of the growing demand for quality dental care. With the specialist-to-patient ratio in Malaysia standing at 1:15,120, there is a clear need for expertise, particularly in specialised fields. The demand is there; what&rsquo;s needed is the innovation and drive to meet it.New dental technologies, including AI that helps diagnose issues faster, 3D printing for personalised dental pieces, and advanced imaging that gives a more detailed view of your teeth, are making dental care more efficient and effective. These tools mean less pain, quicker recovery, and better results for patients. For dentists, it&rsquo;s an exciting time to adopt these innovations and improve patient care. The future of dentistry is in the hands of the next generation who can embrace these changes and reshape the field.Specialisation is no longer just an option, but becoming a necessity. As the field becomes more advanced, patients will increasingly seek out specialists who can provide the highest level of care. This is where the real opportunity lies, with specialisations like orthodontics, which focuses on aligning teeth and jaws, periodontics for treating gum disease, and oral surgery for complex procedures. There&rsquo;s also endodontics, focusing on root canals and the inner tooth, prosthodontics for restoring damaged teeth, and paediatric dentistry, which Bahirah is particularly passionate about. Her dream of opening a paediatric clinic is greatly influenced by the love she has for babies and children. "My goal is to make dental visits fun and enjoyable for kids, so that they actually look forward to every check-up," she says, highlighting her vision of reshaping the dental experience for the younger generation. She acknowledges how dentophobia often stems from childhood, which can then grow into a lifelong fear that prevents individuals from seeking necessary dental care as adults. &ldquo;If we introduce children to a friendly, positive dental environment early on, we can prevent dental trauma that often carries into adulthood.&rdquo;The future of dentistry is bright and full of exciting possibilities for those ready to embrace it. As the field evolves with new technologies and specialisations, there&rsquo;s never been a better time to be part of this profession. Niroshini, Bahirah, and Sharunnie&rsquo;s experiences show us the balance of skill, passion, and continuous learning that dentists have to embody in order to shape the next generation of dental professionals. In the end, for dentistry to truly progress, the path forward lies in cultivating specialists who bring depth, expertise, and new possibilities to patient care.

The Heart of Dentistry: Stories that Inspire the Next Generation of Dentists

Dentistry is one of those careers where you literally get to see the magic happen instantly. One minute, someone&rsquo;s leaving the clinic with a shiny new smile, and the next, they're chomping on their favourite food without wincing in pain. Becoming a dentist basically means you&rsquo;re a teeth superhero!Right now in Malaysia, there&rsquo;s about one dentist for every 2,342 people, and the country is aiming to get that down to 1:1500 by 2030. More smiles = more dentists needed! Plus, there's a crazy demand for dental specialists, with one for every 15,120 patients. So, if you&rsquo;re thinking about a career where you&rsquo;re needed, look no further.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d04dbf4cf_1760088141.gif" alt="" width="633" height="100%" />What&rsquo;s cool about dentistry is that, unlike many healthcare roles, you don&rsquo;t have to wait years to see results. Whether it&rsquo;s a quick filling or a clean-up, you get to make an immediate impact. Plus, it's got that sweet mix of financial stability and a pretty decent work-life balance compared to other medical fields. So, if you&rsquo;ve just finished school and want a rewarding career (and let&rsquo;s be real, a little bit cool), dentistry could be your next big thing.If you're all about healthcare, love solving problems, and want to make a real impact on people's lives, this guide&rsquo;s got you covered. Let&rsquo;s dive in and turn that passion into a career with a bright future!<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d1ff21fd1_1760088575.gif" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /> <h1>Where to Study Dentistry in Malaysia</h1>So, you're set on dentistry but not sure where to study? Don&rsquo;t worry, we&rsquo;ve got you covered with some of the best places in Malaysia to start your dental journey, regardless of whether you&rsquo;re staying local or looking for international opportunities.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">MSU (Management &amp; Science University) Learning dentistry the modern way at MSU with VR, digital tools, and real clinical practice is the real deal. This 5-year bachelor&rsquo;s programme ensures you&rsquo;re prepared for the complex yet exhilarating thrill of studying dentistry!</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">IMU (International Medical University) You can complete your entire 5-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) right here in Malaysia, or transfer halfway to a partner university in the UK, Australia, or New Zealand for that international flavour.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">AIMST University With one of the largest patient pools in Malaysia, AIMST gives you serious practical experience. This means you&rsquo;ll be training in real-life dental centres, which is like going to Kidzania, but better!</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Manipal University Known for its strong health sciences reputation, Manipal&rsquo;s BDS programme is internationally recognised. Plus, you can add some global flair to your degree with double-degree options from partner universities worldwide.</li></ul>Wanna know more about the fees, programme structure, or just want to explore your options? Don&rsquo;t fret, we obviously already have the answers to your questions! Just click <a href="https://afterschool.my/courses?subject_slug=medicine-dentistry-pharmacy&amp;branch_id=11367&amp;study_level_id=2">here</a> to find out more! <h1>Important Steps Before Becoming a Dentist in Malaysia</h1>Before you start filling cavities and brightening smiles, there are a few important steps to ensure you're on the right track.<h2>Pass the Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE)</h2>Time to take on the beast: the PQE. This exam is your ticket to officially becoming a practising dentist in Malaysia. And trust me, it&rsquo;s a rite of passage. Here&rsquo;s what you&rsquo;re up against:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Part I (Theory): Here, you&rsquo;ll tackle multiple-choice questions that work out your mind, and short-answer questions that ask you to think on your feet. These include testing your textbook knowledge and tackling hypothetical scenarios; it&rsquo;s the ultimate test of your dental smarts!</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Part II (Pre-clinical) - Cavity Restoration: Can you fix a molar? You&rsquo;ve got 90 minutes to prove it! - Crown Preparation: Time to get your crown game strong in 90 minutes. - Root Canal Treatment: Ready to tackle a premolar? You&rsquo;ve got 3 hours!</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Part III (Clinical) OSCE: A series of 10 stations, testing your clinical skills in 10-minute bursts. You&rsquo;ll need to be sharp on your feet! It&rsquo;s not a walk in the park, but once you conquer the PQE, you&rsquo;ll be one step closer to being a dentist!</li></ul><h2><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d2766a7f0_1760088694.gif" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /></h2><h2>Complete Your Compulsory Service Year</h2>You&rsquo;ve passed the exams, now it&rsquo;s time to get some hands-on experience! After your degree, you&rsquo;ll need to complete a compulsory service year in a dental clinic. It&rsquo;s your chance to really get into the groove of patient care and practice what you&rsquo;ve learned.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Where You Serve: Government or private clinics&mdash;your choice!</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What You&rsquo;ll Do: Get your hands sticky with real patients, treating them with everything you&rsquo;ve learned so far. Plus, you'll be a dental superhero in training.</li></ul><h2>Register with the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC)</h2>You&rsquo;re almost there! Now that you&rsquo;ve done your service and survived the PQE, it&rsquo;s time for the official step: registering with the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC). This means you can officially start practising as a licensed dentist in Malaysia. Fancy, right?<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What You Need: Academic transcripts, proof of completing your compulsory service, and your PQE results.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The Process: Fill out the paperwork, get everything checked, and boom&mdash;you&rsquo;re almost there.</li></ul><h2>Get Your Practising Certificate</h2>The final boss battle: getting your practising certificate. This is your golden ticket to treat patients legally. But it&rsquo;s not a one-and-done deal, which means you&rsquo;ll need to renew it annually.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What You Need: Proof of your MDC registration, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points, and some professional indemnity insurance.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The Catch: Keep earning those CPD points, or you won&rsquo;t be able to practice. Stay sharp! </li></ul><h1>What&rsquo;s Life Like After Becoming a Dentist?</h1>You did it! After years of exams, drills (pun intended), and practice, you&rsquo;re officially a dentist. So, what&rsquo;s the daily grind like? Well, get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of teeth, gums, and smiles. One minute you&rsquo;ll be fixing up a chipped tooth, and the next, you&rsquo;ll be transforming someone&rsquo;s entire smile with braces or implants. It&rsquo;s a career that&rsquo;s part artist, part problem-solver, and all about making people&rsquo;s lives better.<h2>Top 3 Specialisations in Dentistry</h2>Now that you&rsquo;ve earned your dentist badge, you&rsquo;ve got some exciting paths ahead. If you&rsquo;re looking to go deeper and become an expert in one area, check out these top specialisations:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Orthodontics If you&rsquo;ve always loved the idea of turning crooked smiles into perfect ones, orthodontics is your calling. It&rsquo;s all about braces, retainers, and creating smiles that make people stop and stare. Plus, who doesn&rsquo;t want to be the reason someone feels confident enough to smile freely?</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Oral Surgery</li></ul>Oral surgery is where you get to perform the big stuff like tooth extractions, jaw realignment, and dental implants. It&rsquo;s hands-on, high-intensity, and perfect for those who love solving complex dental problems.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Prosthodontics</li></ul>If you&rsquo;re into restoring teeth and creating lifelike dental prosthetics, prosthodontics might be your jam. From crowns and bridges to dentures and implants, you&rsquo;ll be the mastermind behind restoring smiles and function to your patients&rsquo; mouths. It&rsquo;s like being a dental architect!These are just a few of the exciting pathways you can take in the world of dentistry. Click <a href="https://afterschool.my/career/dentist">here</a> to get a gist of what life is gonna look like once you become a licensed dentist! <h1>Make a Lasting Impact, One Smile at a Time</h1>What makes this field special is its blend of science, artistry, and human connection. The cherry on top is that being a dentist gives you the satisfaction of knowing you&rsquo;ve made someone&rsquo;s world a little brighter.So if you enjoy science, doing practical work, and are keen on becoming friends with the tooth fairy, then dentistry might just be the perfect fit for you!🦷🧚&zwj;♀️<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8d2d1c10d5_1760088785.gif" alt="" width="633" height="100%" />

Studying Dentistry in Malaysia: Your Complete Guide to Building a Career That Makes People Smile

Pharmacists are in high demand in Malaysia, with the pharmacist-to-population ratio of roughly 1:1,700, slightly below the World Health Organization&rsquo;s recommended ratio of 1:2,000 for developed countries.The career itself sounds promising, but the study journey can be challenging. Some students may find it smooth, while others need more guidance. That&rsquo;s where Afterschool comes in! We help you navigate the pathways to study pharmacy in Malaysia and make the choice that aligns with your goals.👉 If you want to know more about the basics of studying Pharmacy in Malaysia, navigating your academic journey, career paths and more, check out our <a href="https://afterschool.my/course-guide/pharmacy">Pharmacy Course Guide!</a> &nbsp; <h1>Pharmacy vs. Pharmaceutical Science.&nbsp;</h1>Pharmacy focuses on preparing and dispensing medications, patient care and clinical practice. Graduates become licensed pharmacists after completing the pre-registration internship and passing the Pharmacy Board exam.Pharmaceutical Science focuses on the research, development, and production of drugs. Graduates usually work in laboratories, research institutions, or the pharmaceutical industry, but they do not become licensed pharmacists. Make sure to take the right course according to your career goals.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e8664dab60c_1760061005.png" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science are two distinct fields.</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;There are also different types of specialisation that you can choose from after graduation. Check it out <a href="https://afterschool.my/course-guide/pharmacy#:~:text=b)%20Pharmacy%20Paths%20to%20Shape%20Your%20Career">here</a>. <h1>Understanding the three pathways</h1>Is it important to know the differences between these pathways? Yes, because they will affect your education experience, career opportunities, cost and licensing processes. By understanding these pathways, you can choose the one that best aligns with your academic goals, budget and career aspirations as a future pharmacist. <h1>Local Private Universities</h1>These universities provide a complete pharmacy education and degree, recognised by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia. After graduation, students must complete a 1-year pre-registration internship and pass the Pharmacy Board Examination to become a licensed pharmacist.<h2>Recognition by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia</h2>When you pursue a pharmacy programme, it&rsquo;s crucial that it&rsquo;s accredited and recognised by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia. This ensures that the curriculum meets the local educational and professional standards necessary for licensing and practice in Malaysia. A recognised programme ensures that your degree meets the national standards and allows you to practice legally."What if I study at a place that's not recognised?" You may face challenges when applying for a license to practice as a pharmacist, which could delay your career.<h2>The 1-year Pre-registration Internship</h2>This compulsory practice training is a mandatory requirement so that you can gain practical experience and be prepared for registration as a practising pharmacist.&nbsp;Usually, students will look for opportunities at public and private hospitals, approved community pharmacies or other pharmaceutical industry settings that the Pharmacy Board accredits for training.Typically, local private university students&rsquo; journey for their 1-year pre-registration internship is smoother for a few reasons:&nbsp;<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Structured Placement Support: Many local private universities have partnerships with hospitals, community pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies, helping you secure your internship placement. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Industry Connections: You get access to professional networks through your university, including alumni and lecturers, which can open doors to better internship opportunities. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Guidance and Mentorship: Universities often guide students on how to navigate the internship, understand expectations, and prepare for the Pharmacy Board Examination.</li></ul><h2>Pharmacy Board Examination</h2>Passing the Pharmacy Board Examination is your key to practising as a licensed pharmacist in Malaysia. Without it, you cannot legally dispense medications, counsel patients, or manage drug therapies. The examination tests your knowledge in various areas, including pharmacology, drug therapy management, and pharmaceutical law.Employers, especially hospitals and pharmaceutical companies, require this certification, making it the essential stamp of credibility that opens the door to a professional pharmacy career.So, in Malaysia, these universities offer programmes for those pursuing a career as a pharmacist:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Management and Science University | Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Taylor&rsquo;s University | Bachelor of Pharmacy</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">International Medical University (IMU) | BPharm (Hons)</li></ul>👉 Click <a href="https://afterschool.my/courses?subject_slug=medicine-dentistry-pharmacy&amp;branch_id=11408&amp;study_level_id=2">here</a> to check the details (e.g. fees, requirements and location).&nbsp; <h1>Twinning or credit-transfer programmes</h1>When enrolling with these programmes, students typically study for 2 years in Malaysia (with a local partner university) and then transfer to a university abroad to complete their final 2 years.&nbsp;So what is so special about these programmes? You will be able to graduate with a UK or Australian pharmacy degree that is globally recognised (oh, and the experience of studying abroad as well!).For the twinning programmes to be valid, you need to ensure that the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia recognises them. There are specific conditions that must be met to ensure students can return to Malaysia and become certified pharmacists.&nbsp;In Malaysia, only a few universities offer these twinning programmes, including the International Medical University (IMU).<h2>Recognition of the Partner University</h2>Typically, universities in the UK, Australia, and Ireland offer pharmacy programmes that the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia recognises. However, the specific course structure and curriculum must align with the certification requirements in Malaysia.<h2>Accredited Pharmacy Degree</h2>The degree awarded by the foreign university after completing the twinning programme must be an accredited pharmacy degree that meets the standards set by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia.<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68e86777be207_1760061303.png" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>The Pharmacy Board of Malaysia (PBM) is the national body that regulates the pharmacy profession.</figcaption></figure>&nbsp;The degree must be comparable to the Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) or equivalent programmes recognised in Malaysia.<h2>Internship and Training Requirements</h2>Even if a foreign university awards the degree, students must complete a 1-year pre-registration internship in Malaysia. This internship is essential for gaining practical experience in the Malaysian healthcare system.Pharmacy Board approval is needed for the internship placement. Local private universities offering twinning programmes typically help connect students with local internship opportunities.<h2>Pharmacy Board Examination</h2>After completing the twinning programme and the required internship, students must pass the Pharmacy Board Examination to become licensed pharmacists in Malaysia, allowing them to register with the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia and practice legally as pharmacists.<h2>Verification Process</h2>Oh, and if you are looking into enrolling for the twinning programmes, this is SUPER IMPORTANT! Students from twinning programmes must apply to the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia to have their foreign degree and internship verified before they can sit for the licensing examination.The Pharmacy Board will assess whether the foreign programme aligns with the professional and academic standards required in Malaysia. <h1>Foreign branch campuses in Malaysia</h1>This pathway allows students to study in Malaysia while earning a degree from an international university. It provides access to a globally recognised education locally, often at a lower cost than studying abroad.Similar to the twinning programmes, you need to always check the latest accreditation status on the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia website before applying. You also need to ensure that the programme offers a pre-registration internship placement in Malaysia, which is required for licensure.Below are some examples of foreign branch campuses in Malaysia that offer accredited pharmacy programmes recognised by the Pharmacy Board of Malaysia:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Monash University</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">University of Nottingham</li></ul>👉 Click <a href="https://afterschool.my/courses?subject_slug=medicine-dentistry-pharmacy&amp;branch_id=11408&amp;study_level_id=2">here</a> to check the details (e.g. fees, requirements and location).&nbsp;These institutions provide students with the opportunity to earn a globally recognised degree locally, ensuring they meet the requirements for licensure and practice in Malaysia.Selecting the right pathway to become a pharmacist sets the stage for your healthcare career. Local private universities, twinning programmes, and foreign branch campuses each offer unique advantages, from international exposure and lower costs to high-quality education and local licensure.Your choice should align with your career goals, budget, and personal preferences. Whether you prefer the stability of a full local programme or the global experience of a twinning programme, the skills and knowledge you gain will shape your journey.Explore your options, ask the right questions, and take the first step towards a rewarding career as a pharmacist.

Psychology is emerging as the ideal field for today's generation, offering a meaningful career path that addresses pressing societal issues.

Your Guide to Studying Pharmacy in Malaysia: Key Pathways Explained

Studying Pharmacy in Malaysia: All the Pathways You Need to Know

With a population of 35 million, Malaysia currently has only 400 clinical psychologists. The psychologist-to-population ratio is 1:87,500, while the recommended number by the World Health Organization is 1 to 5,000. Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj, president of the Malaysian Mental Health Association, described the situation as &ldquo;dismal.&rdquo;&nbsp;Hence, psychology is emerging as a rapidly growing field, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. For today&rsquo;s generation, psychology is not only a career but also a means to tackle societal issues, enhance well-being, and create meaningful change.And that is one of the reasons why psychology has emerged as the ideal field to explore. But how exactly can <a href="https://afterschool.my/course-guide/psychology">studying psychology</a> offer a career path that aligns with the challenges of today&rsquo;s world?&nbsp; <h1>Understanding the Growing Importance of Mental Health</h1>&ldquo;I believe that psychology is a powerful field that could transform humans&rsquo; lives,&rdquo; says Khaw Huai Xi, a second-year psychology student at HELP University. Her interest in psychology began from a natural curiosity about human behaviour. &ldquo;Like, why do good people sometimes make bad choices?&rdquo; she explains. &ldquo;Rather than focusing on scientific reactions, I found myself fascinated by the complexities of human actions.&rdquo;<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68de298c15fc4_1759390092.png" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Our choices are shaped by our mind, emotions, and environment. Understanding them is the heart of psychology.</figcaption></figure>This rising awareness of mental health is particularly significant for the younger generation, as they are more attuned to the importance of mental well-being compared to previous generations. As Professor Victor Goh Weng Yew, Associate Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Behavioural Sciences at HELP University, points out, &ldquo;Every generation has its strengths and weaknesses, and it's common for older generations to view younger ones as &lsquo;weaker&rsquo; or &lsquo;more pampered&rsquo;. However, the stats don&rsquo;t support this. In fact, Gen Z is more resilient than its predecessors in many ways.&rdquo;<figure class="image align-center"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68de36e82570c_1759393512.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="560" /><figcaption>Professor Victor Goh Weng Yew, Associate Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Behavioural Sciences at HELP University</figcaption></figure>This resilience, coupled with the growing recognition of mental health issues, makes psychology an incredibly relevant and rewarding field for today&rsquo;s generation. The need for skilled mental health professionals has never been more critical, and pursuing a career in psychology offers students the opportunity to make a lasting impact in a world that is in dire need of support and change.&nbsp;<h1>A Fulfilling Career with Many Opportunities</h1>The skills you gain from studying psychology are increasingly in demand across various industries. It&rsquo;s no longer just about working as a therapist; psychology graduates are highly sought after in industries ranging from marketing and human resources to education and corporate wellness.Fam Chi En (Samantha), who is a behaviour therapist and founder of Playful Pathways Consultancy, reflects on how studying psychology prepared her for her role, where she needs to juggle multiple responsibilities, communicate effectively with stakeholders and manage diverse tasks.&ldquo;My typical day involves clinical sessions, screenings, report writing, supervision and content creation,&rdquo; says Samantha. &ldquo;My psychology studies laid the foundation for my role as a behaviour therapist by equipping me with a deep understanding of human behaviour, which is essential when working with children with developmental delays.&rdquo;For Professor Goh, who also owns a consulting firm, studying psychology was a game-changer in how he approaches his daily workload. &ldquo;Psychology has taught me the crucial difference between &lsquo;important&rsquo; and &lsquo;urgent&rsquo;&mdash;and that these aren&rsquo;t always the same.&rdquo; While urgent tasks demand immediate attention, important tasks often have a longer-term impact, like taking time to rest or practice self-care. &ldquo;Taking enough rest may not feel urgent in the moment,&rdquo; he says, &ldquo;but it is vitally important for sustained productivity and well-being.&rdquo;"I find joy and fulfilment in my work, even with its unconventional hours,&rdquo; <a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/finding-her-path-how-kiran-kaur-discovered-her-true-calling-in-psychology">Kiran Kaur</a> a clinical psychologist at a BPO company, says. For Kiran, clinical psychology is a challenging yet enriching journey. She adds, &ldquo;My whole study and professional journey tested me in many ways. Workload, time management and emotional resilience.&rdquo; Yet, for her, these hardships were essential for her growth as a therapist and person. &ldquo;So, whether it's a specific area of psychology or a type of research, let your curiosity guide you.&rdquo;&nbsp; <h1>The Power of Social Change and Advocacy</h1>Psychology helps to identify, understand and address the mental and emotional toll that systemic issues (like social inequality, racism and lack of access to resources) have on society. It empowers psychologists not just to support individuals but also to push for broader societal changes.For Samantha, this understanding was the driving force behind her decision to pursue the field. She was naturally drawn to psychology out of a desire to explore the deeper complexities of human behaviour. &ldquo;I was always curious about why certain beliefs, like &lsquo;children of divorced parents are more likely to end up in toxic relationships,&rsquo; are so pervasive,&rdquo; she explains. &ldquo;I wanted to understand if these ideas were true, and if so, why?&rdquo;Her studies revealed an important lesson that reinforced psychology's role in addressing these broader issues: &ldquo;Psychology isn&rsquo;t about one-size-fits-all answers. Even the most well-known theories come with exceptions,&rdquo; Samantha shares. &ldquo;The field is full of nuances, and that&rsquo;s what makes it so important. It challenges us to dig deeper and understand the complexities that shape individuals and society.&rdquo;With the growing focus on diversity, inclusion and social justice, psychology professionals are needed more than ever to help communities and individuals navigate and overcome barriers. <h1>Becoming a Psychologist</h1>Becoming a psychologist requires dedication, but it&rsquo;s a journey that pays off. According to Professor Goh, the pathway to becoming a psychologist typically involves earning a Bachelor&rsquo;s Degree in Psychology, followed by a Master&rsquo;s Degree or PhD in a specific area of psychology. With these qualifications, psychologists are trained in therapy and clinical practice. &ldquo;We (psychologists) don't prescribe medication, but we specialise in therapeutic techniques like talk therapy to help individuals manage mental health issues&rdquo;.<figure class="image"><img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68de2ab19db8a_1759390385.png" alt="" width="633" height="100%" /><figcaption>Becoming a psychologist is a journey of dedication.</figcaption></figure>He adds, &ldquo;Psychology graduates who continue their education and specialise in areas like clinical psychology or counselling are in high demand. The field is rapidly evolving, and there are always new areas to explore.&rdquo;In today&rsquo;s world, psychology offers a pathway to a fulfilling, impactful and diverse career. Whether you&rsquo;re passionate about helping people with mental health issues, advocating for social change, or applying psychological principles in various industries, psychology has something for everyone.With the growing demand for mental health professionals, especially in light of the recent global crises, the opportunities for psychology graduates are vast. By pursuing psychology, you can be part of the solution, helping to address mental health challenges while building a career that makes a real difference.For more detailed information on the pathways to study Psychology, you can read it <a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/studying-psychology-in-malaysia-all-the-pathways-you-need-to-know">here</a>.

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Founded in 1986, HELP University is a leading institution in Malaysia renowned for its excellence in business, psychology, law, and IT education. It offers students a holistic academic experience, combining rigorous coursework with opportunities for international exposure through its partnerships with globally recognized universities. HELP&rsquo;s campuses are equipped with modern facilities and a dedicated career placement center to support students in securing internships and employment. Its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and personal development ensures students are well-prepared to face global challenges. With a vibrant student community and active clubs, HELP nurtures a balanced and enriching university life.
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Why Psychology is the Perfect Choice for the New Generation

Why Psychology is the Perfect Choice for the New Generation?

Malaysia is facing a CRITICAL SHORTAGE of psychologists.The demand for mental health professionals has surged in recent years, driven by post-pandemic anxiety, stress and rising cases of bullying linked to social media use.According to The Star, Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj, president of the Malaysian Mental Health Association, described the situation as &ldquo;dismal.&rdquo; With a population of 35 million, Malaysia currently has only 400 clinical psychologists. The psychologist-to-population ratio is 1:87,500, while the recommended number by the World Health Organization is 1:5,000.&nbsp;This shortage means fewer opportunities for people to receive professional mental health support when they need it, but it also implies that the demand for psychologists in Malaysia is high.&nbsp;👉 So if you decided to study Psychology in Malaysia, check out our basic <a href="https://afterschool.my/course-guide/psychology">Psychology Course Guide!</a>&nbsp;<h1>Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist vs. Counsellor</h1>Psychologists hold a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and specialise in understanding the mind, emotions and behaviour. They often focus on research or clinical practice and use psychotherapy (talk therapy) to treat mental health conditions. While they don&rsquo;t prescribe medication, they help individuals address emotional and psychological issues, offering a deep understanding of human behaviour. To know more details about the study journey and the industry itself, you can read <a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/emlynne-tham-a-journey-into-clinical-psychology-through-imu-and-taylor-s">Emlynne Tham</a>&rsquo;s and <a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/finding-her-path-how-kiran-kaur-discovered-her-true-calling-in-psychology">Kiran Kaur</a>&rsquo;s journey in becoming a clinical psychologist.&nbsp;<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68dc98bb040ef_1759287483.png" alt="" width="633" height="100%" />&nbsp;Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO) with specialised training in mental health. They diagnose and treat complex mental health conditions, and most importantly, they can prescribe medication and administer medical treatments. Psychiatrists often manage conditions that require medical interventions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or severe depression.Counsellors (or therapists) typically hold a master&rsquo;s degree in a mental health field, such as psychology, counselling psychology, or marriage and family therapy. They are skilled in evaluating mental health and using talk therapy to help clients work through life challenges, stress or relationship issues. Counsellors provide emotional support but typically do not prescribe medication or manage severe mental health conditions.There are also different specialisations that you can explore after graduating with a Psychology degree. Check it out <a href="https://afterschool.my/course-guide/psychology#:~:text=b)%20Areas%20of%20Specialisation">here</a>.<h1>Degree in Psychology&nbsp;</h1>A <a href="https://afterschool.my/course-guide/psychology">Degree in Psychology</a> will give you a solid foundation in how the human mind works. Most psychology degrees in Malaysia take around three years to complete.With a psychology degree, you will be prepared to explore almost any career that you want. You could dive into careers in human resources, marketing, advertising, public relations or sales, where understanding people gives you a real edge.If you want to pursue a Degree in Psychology, these are among the main pathways to choose from:<h1>Local Private Universities</h1>These universities provide a complete psychology education and a locally recognised degree. Graduates may pursue further training, internships, or certifications depending on the area of psychology they choose to specialise in.&nbsp;Local private universities offering psychology degrees include:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Management and Science University | Bachelor in Psychology (Hons)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Asia Pacific University of Technology &amp; Innovation (APU) | Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychology</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus | Applied Psychology and Management BSc (Hons)</li></ul>For a full list of universities, programmes, and details, click <a href="https://afterschool.my/courses?branch_id=11410&amp;study_level_id=2">here</a> to explore your options.<h1>Foreign Branch Campuses in Malaysia</h1>This pathway allows students to study locally while earning a degree from an international university. It offers globally recognised education at a lower cost compared to studying abroad.If you decide to go to a foreign branch campus in Malaysia, just remember these key tips:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Always check accreditation status and professional recognition in Malaysia. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ensure the programme offers internship placements or practical training as required.</li></ul>These are to ensure that your degree is officially recognised and meets the standards requirements in Malaysia. It is important for your future career. Likewise, internship placements or practical training are essential, as they provide hands-on experience, help you apply what you&rsquo;ve learned in real-world settings, and prepare you for professional practice after graduation.Examples of foreign branch campuses offering psychology programmes in Malaysia:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Monash University Malaysia | Bachelor of Psychology</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">University of Nottingham Malaysia | BSc (Hons) in Psychology</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Heriot-Watt University | BSc (Hons) Psychology</li></ul>👉 Click <a href="https://afterschool.my/courses?branch_id=11410&amp;study_level_id=2">here</a> to check the details (e.g., fees, requirements, and location) and more foreign branch campuses that offer psychology programmes in Malaysia.&nbsp;<h1>Becoming A Psychologist: Master&rsquo;s Degree</h1>To become a licensed psychologist, you will need a <a href="https://afterschool.my/courses?branch_id=11410&amp;study_level_id=3">master&rsquo;s degree in psychology.</a> This is where you can specialise in a particular field of psychology, such as clinical psychology, educational psychology, counselling psychology, sports psychology, or industrial and organisational psychology, and develop advanced knowledge and skills.Most master&rsquo;s programmes in Malaysia take around two years to complete and typically include a combination of academic coursework, practicum or internship experience, and a research project.It&rsquo;s important to note that entry requirements vary by specialisation. For example, a Master&rsquo;s in Clinical Psychology often requires not only excellent academic results but also passing an interview. Other specialisations may not have this additional requirement.If your goal is to start your own private practice, conduct research, or pursue a career in academia, further study through a PhD in psychology is recommended. This level of training provides the expertise and credentials needed for advanced professional practice and leadership roles in the field.<h1>Registering as a Psychologist in Malaysia</h1>After completing your postgraduate studies, the next step is professional registration. Clinical psychologists must register with the Malaysian Allied Health Professions Council and obtain a practising certificate.While counsellors will need to register with Lembaga Kaunselor Malaysia, other psychology specialisations currently have no mandatory licensure, but joining professional networks can boost credibility and career opportunities. These steps ensure you are officially recognised and ready to practise in your chosen field.A career in psychology offers endless opportunities to understand and improve human well-being. Whether your goal is clinical practice, counselling, research or academia, the journey may be challenging, but the impact you can make in people&rsquo;s lives makes it worthwhile.&nbsp;Start planning your pathway today and take the first step toward a meaningful career in psychology.

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