Beyond the dispensary: a journey of purpose

Ng Kar Weng’s journey began with a pivotal moment after graduation when he received an international scholarship for postgraduate studies. Following that, he pursued a fully funded PhD at a renowned Australian university. During his university years, Ng served as treasurer of the Taylor’s University Student Council, an experience that included a memorable encounter with former U.S. President Barack Obama at a Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative town hall.

This event shaped Ng’s approach to challenges, instilling a sense of curiosity and critical thinking, which he applied to enhancing healthcare and patient outcomes throughout his career.

Initially practicing clinical pharmacy in Malaysia, Ng pursued further studies on a prestigious international scholarship and now holds a fully funded PhD in pharmacometrics at a leading Australian university. His interest in pharmacy was ignited by witnessing his grandfather’s battle with colorectal cancer, which led him to explore the inner workings of medications.

At Taylor’s University, Ng immersed himself in various pharmacy settings, from community pharmacies to tertiary hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry, through internships and leadership roles. His dedication to both academic excellence and holistic development earned him the Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society-CCM Gold Medal in 2017.

Jason Loo, the programme director of the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) at Taylor’s University, highlighted Ng’s exposure as intentional. The program broadened students’ perspectives through classroom learning, attachments, alumni discussions, and industry collaborations. Enhanced by clinical attachments, case simulations, and patient interactions, the program cultivated technical competence, empathy, communication skills, and professional judgment—essential qualities for modern pharmacists.

As pharmacy evolves, graduates contribute to regulatory affairs, medical affairs, market access, and research.

Ng’s postgraduate research is already making a real-world impact by optimizing treatment for vulnerable patient populations. His work focuses on refining medicine dosing for transplant patients, using quantitative approaches to improve care for thousands. Reflecting on his journey, Ng describes Taylor’s University as a place of curiosity, perseverance, and purpose.

He emphasizes that success lies not in the titles one earns but in how one utilizes the opportunities presented. The School of Pharmacy at Taylor’s University prepares students for diverse careers in healthcare, research, and the pharmaceutical industry.