【43rd Talk】Dr. Chia Wah Kaim: “Life and Vitality”
Upcoming Event
| Introduction | The 43rd session of the “Tan Lark Sye Lecture Series,” organized by the Institute of International Education and the Tan Lark Sye Institute at New Era University College（NEUC） is now open for registration. We are honored to invite Dr. Chia Wah Kaim, a world-renowned expert in virology and a distinguished alumnus of Nanyang University, to be the keynote speaker for this lecture. As an internationally recognized medical researcher, Dr. Chia has made significant contributions to virus diagnostics and vaccine development, earning accolades such as the "Outstanding Asian Canadian Award."In this lecture, Dr. Chia will share insights from his research journey, exploring cutting-edge topics in life sciences and the intersection of medical science and humanistic care. With both academic depth and personal reflection, his talk promises to inspire and enlighten. This event is not only an academic highlight but also a reflection of Nanyang University’s spirit of resilience and continuous improvement. All students and faculty are warmly invited to attend and engage in this meaningful dialogue. |
| Speaker | Dr. Chia Wah Kaim (World-Class Medical Virologist) Originally from Kota Tinggi, Johor, Dr. Chia Wah Kaim is an alumnus of the Department of Biology at Nanyang University and holds a Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology from the University of Toronto. He served at Health Canada for over 20 years, focusing on virus diagnostics and vaccine development. He was the first scientist in Canada to successfully observe the hepatitis B antigen using electron microscopy. In 2017, he was honored with the “Outstanding Asian Canadian Award” in recognition of his contributions to scientific research and community service. Dr. Chia’s research spans key topics such as hepatitis B, vaccine efficacy, and HIV/AIDS, combining scientific rigor with real-world relevance. In the post-pandemic era, his work is especially significant, prompting deeper reflection on public health and virology. |
| Moderator | Lin Siew Chin (Head of Department cum Lecturer, Public Relations Department) Lecturer Lin Siew Chin holds a Master’s degree in Communication (Integrated Marketing Communication) from University Sains Malaysia. In addition to serving as the Head of the Public Relations Department at NEUC, she is also a full-time lecturer. Her teaching and leadership experience covers areas such as digital and media literacy, public relations, and cross-media production. |
| Information | Date: 3rd July 2025 (Thursday) Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Venue: B309 |
Lecture Postscript
New Era University College (NEUC) was honoured to host two distinguished alumni of Nanyang University—Dr. Chia Wah Kaim, a renowned virologist, and Dr. Chia-Looi Ahsing, a plant science scholar from Western University, Canada. As part of the Tan Lark Sye Lecture Series, Dr. Chia Wah Kaim delivered a public talk titled “Life and Vitality”, held in B309 to a full house of over 100 enthusiastic attendees.
A graduate of Nanyang University’s Biology Department, Dr. Chia Wah Kaim earned his PhD in Medical Microbiology from the University of Toronto and served over 20 years with Health Canada. He is the first Chinese scientist in Canada to observe the Hepatitis B antigen using an electron microscope. His research spans Hepatitis B, HIV/AIDS, vaccine efficacy, and public health.
Blending science and reflection, Dr. Chia Wah Kaim explored “the origin of life and the value within life.” He shared: “Qi is life, and force is vitality. When both are in balance, one experiences a life full of energy.” He also introduced his “3 Pursuits and 8 Vital Principles” to inspire a fuller, healthier life.
The talk included insights on how vaccines protect the body and their role in public health. An engaging Q&A followed, with active participation from students and staff.
Dr. Chia Wah Kaim’s lifelong dedication to education and research exemplifies the Nanyang Spirit—“Self-Improvement and the Pursuit of Excellence.” His visit brought knowledge, inspiration, and renewed appreciation for the legacy of Chinese-medium education.
