After 16 years of dedicated service in the government hospital (primarily in the Anesthesiology Department), I embarked on a new journey to explore acupuncture.
As a Malay medical doctor without a Chinese background, finding a pathway into acupuncture was initially challenging due to the language barrier. However, my passion for clinical pain management and a desire to delve deeper into alternative and complementary therapies kept me motivated.
In 2016, I began my acupuncture journey with certificate courses, gradually progressing to a diploma. Just as I was nearing completion, I fatefully stumbled upon an advertisement on Facebook. IMU was offering a Master of Science (MSc) in Acupuncture specifically tailored for medical doctors. It was a moment of pure joy and validation – finally, an opportunity to realize my dream.
As a seasoned medical doctor with 16 years of experience, finding a balance between my professional commitments and personal interests was paramount. When I discovered IMU‘s part-time Master in Acupuncture programme, I knew it was the perfect fit for me.
My Journey Studying Acupuncture at IMU
In September 2018, I eagerly joined the inaugural batch of the MSc in Acupuncture programme at IMU, alongside seven other esteemed doctors, where I was the only Malay participant. The programme not only provided a comprehensive understanding of acupuncture but also equipped me with the necessary skills to integrate this ancient practice into modern medicine.
One of the main reasons I chose this programme was its flexibility. It being a part-time course meant I could continue serving at the government hospital while pursuing my passion for acupuncture. The online classes being held at nights and weekends allowed me to seamlessly integrate learning into my schedule. Additionally, the monthly physical classes at the IMU campus were manageable, thanks to its strategic location and excellent public transport connectivity. I could easily plan day trips from Kuantan to Bukit Jalil using the efficient and conveniently co-located bus and transit rail services right almost to the doorstep of the university, minimising disruption to my work routine.
Moreover, the course structure itself was designed to accommodate professionals like me. With practical courses that could be planned around my schedule, I never felt overwhelmed by the demands of balancing work and studies. The support of experienced lecturers and state-of-the-art facilities further enhanced my learning experience.
One of the standout features of the programme was its medium of instruction – English, which was a rarity in the field as most acupuncture courses were in Chinese language. As a Malay doctor without a Chinese background, having the course conducted in English was immensely beneficial and made the learning process significantly more accessible.
Throughout the programme, I was impressed by the depth of knowledge imparted by the faculty and the emphasis on practical approach to learning. The curriculum was meticulously designed to cater to the diverse professional backgrounds of medical practitioners, ensuring that each participant could apply their newfound knowledge effectively in their respective fields.
The inclusivity and support extended to students from different cultural backgrounds as well was remarkable. Despite being the only Malay participant, I always felt welcomed and valued within the IMU community.
I am immensely grateful to IMU for providing me with the platform to pursue my passion and for empowering me to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients. My experience at IMU has been nothing short of transformative, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to any medical professional seeking to explore the realms of acupuncture.
Overall, my journey with IMU’s part-time Master in Acupuncture programme has been incredibly fulfilling. It has allowed me to pursue my passion for acupuncture without compromising my professional responsibilities.
Today, as a graduate of IMU’s Master in Acupuncture programme, I am not only equipped with the expertise to enhance patient care through acupuncture but am also always inspired to continue my journey of lifelong learning in complementary medicine.
Written by Dr Noor Shuhada Binti Yop Ahmad
