I'm a practising marine ecologist, geographer, and educator with a passion for natural science and conservation. Prior to my academic pursuits, I gained experience in the IT and medical industries for four years. In 2022, I completed my M.Phil. in Marine Science at Universiti Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, under the guidance of Dr. Jillian Ooi Lean Sim, Dr. Louisa Ponnampalam and Dr. Rizman bin Idid. My research focused on the feeding ecology of dugongs, using spatial and ecological approaches to map their seagrass habitats and main feeding areas (they don't feed in a random way...), and determine their feeding preferences (...and yes, they are picky eaters!).
Before beginning my PhD, I spent two years as a research assistant in Prof. Allen Chaolun Chen's laboratory at Academia Sinica, Taiwan. During that time, I conducted fieldwork for long-term coral reef monitoring programs around Taiwan, from the most northern sites (Pinnacle, Craig and Agincourt Islands) to the most southern sites (Taiping Island/ Itu Aba, Spratlys). Additionally, I coordinated government and institutional-funded projects focused on the life history traits and responses of corals to climate change.
I'm now doing my PhD at The University of Queensland, Australia, looking at how seagrass connectivity play a role in shaping the distribution and habitat use of megaherbivores. To answer this question, I need to use a range of approaches, including biophysical modelling and eDNA analysis, and collaborate with regional experts to improve our understanding of migratory connectivity of megaherbivores. It's a steep learning curve, but I found myself enjoying working with large and diverse groups of people who share a common goal of solving real-world problems. Ultimately, I hope to apply this knowledge to develop an optimised protected area design to enhance the conservation planning for seagrasses and megaherbivores in the region.
Before beginning my PhD, I spent two years as a research assistant in Prof. Allen Chaolun Chen's laboratory at Academia Sinica, Taiwan. During that time, I conducted fieldwork for long-term coral reef monitoring programs around Taiwan, from the most northern sites (Pinnacle, Craig and Agincourt Islands) to the most southern sites (Taiping Island/ Itu Aba, Spratlys). Additionally, I coordinated government and institutional-funded projects focused on the life history traits and responses of corals to climate change.
I'm now doing my PhD at The University of Queensland, Australia, looking at how seagrass connectivity play a role in shaping the distribution and habitat use of megaherbivores. To answer this question, I need to use a range of approaches, including biophysical modelling and eDNA analysis, and collaborate with regional experts to improve our understanding of migratory connectivity of megaherbivores. It's a steep learning curve, but I found myself enjoying working with large and diverse groups of people who share a common goal of solving real-world problems. Ultimately, I hope to apply this knowledge to develop an optimised protected area design to enhance the conservation planning for seagrasses and megaherbivores in the region.
“There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature
– the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after the winter.”
– Rachel Carson
I am a strong believer in the power of sharing knowledge, especially when it comes to natural science. This is why I regularly engage in educational outreach by giving talks to schoolchildren and the general public. When I'm not spreading the word about the importance of marine conservation, I enjoy immersing myself in the depths of the ocean. There's nothing quite like the feeling of being surrounded by the sounds of the sea, swimming alongside colorful marine life in coral reefs and seagrass meadows. Although I can't sing like marine mammals, I enjoy belting out tunes with friends at karaoke.
As I continue to advance in my career, I recognize the pressing need to address issues such as habitat loss, declining biodiversity, and ineffective policy-making. I am committed to confronting biases and discrimination in both science and society, particularly in my home country, which I hold dear to my heart.
As I continue to advance in my career, I recognize the pressing need to address issues such as habitat loss, declining biodiversity, and ineffective policy-making. I am committed to confronting biases and discrimination in both science and society, particularly in my home country, which I hold dear to my heart.
"Intelligence plus character,
that is the goal of true education."
– Martin Luther King J
