Advancing Clinical Psychology: Celebrating Research Excellence at the Inaugural Symposium

The Master of Clinical Psychology Programme proudly hosted its first-ever Clinical Psychology Symposium, marking a significant milestone in fostering a strong research culture. This inaugural event featured Batch 4 as the pioneering cohort, setting a precedent for future research-focused initiatives within the programme.

Designed to enhance the research culture and support postgraduate students in developing their professional competencies, the symposium began with an inspiring address by Prof. Dr. Anindita Dasgupta, Head of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Taylor’s University. She emphasized the critical integration of research and clinical practice in advancing the field of psychology. The symposium was hosted by emcees Ooi Min Xuan, Justin Leo Dorairaj, and Zachary Yap U-Keet, all Master of Clinical Psychology students.

The event featured a series of research presentations, engaging discussions, and a thought-provoking forum titled "Bridging Clinical Practice with Research." The distinguished panellists from Taylor's University, Dr. Lim Hooi Shan, Dr. Sam Jeng Mun, Ms. Faeza Hasnan, Mr. Allistair Adam Anak Nelson, and Dr. Hiran Shanake Perera, explored key topics such as balancing research with clinical responsibilities and the evolving role of research in shaping clinical psychology. The session was skillfully moderated by Justin Leo Dorairaj, a Master of Clinical Psychology student.

A key highlight of the symposium was the Best Presenter Awards, which recognized outstanding research contributions. Cyan Sin Tze Ean received the Gold Award for her study on body image concerns and disordered eating, focusing on the role of obsessional beliefs. Andrea Krisha Soosay was awarded the Silver Award for her research on how quality of life influences the relationship between hyperhidrosis and social anxiety disorder in Malaysians. The Bronze Award went to Rebecca Goh Wan Ming for her study on the moderating role of mental health literacy in the relationship between loneliness and psychological distress among adolescents.

Their research underscored the importance of understanding mental health issues and reinforced the symposium’s goal of bridging research with clinical practice. The panel of evaluators including Prof. Dr. Rozainee Khairudin, Head of the Department of Psychology, and psychology lecturers Dr. Lim Hooi Shan, Dr. Sam Jeng Mun, Ms. Faeza Hasnan, Mr. Allistair Adam Anak Nelson, Dr. Hiran Shanake Perera, and Ms. Affezah Ali, provided insightful feedback to help presenters refine their studies.

The symposium concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Dr. Rozainee Khairudin, who commended the participants for their exemplary research efforts and commitment to integrating evidence-based practices into clinical work. This landmark event not only strengthened research collaborations but also inspired future students to embrace research as a cornerstone of professional practice, ensuring that clinical psychology continues to evolve through scientific inquiry and innovation.