Dr. Arutchelvan Rajamanikam is a distinguished researcher in medical parasitology and microbiology, recognized for his contributions to parasite genomics and bacteria–parasite interactions. Currently serving as Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, he leads cutting-edge research at the intersection of gut microbiota, protozoan parasites, and host-pathogen dynamics. His work is particularly noted for advancing the understanding of Blastocystis sp. biology, where he has helped redefine its pathogenic potential through integrative genomic, transcriptomic, and microbiome-based approaches. Dr. Arutchelvan’s research excellence lies in uncovering the bidirectional relationship between intestinal parasites and bacterial communities, demonstrating how microbial ecosystems influence parasite virulence, drug resistance, and disease outcomes. He employs advanced methodologies including next-generation sequencing, high-throughput drug screening, and computational microbiome analysis, positioning his work at the forefront of translational infectious disease research. His investigations extend to parasite genomics in helminths and protozoa, as well as vector microbiota, with implications for antimicrobial resistance and precision medicine. With over 17 peer-reviewed publications and an H-index of 9, his research has gained international recognition. He has secured competitive funding exceeding MYR 2.1 million as Principal Investigator and collaborator, including prestigious grants from national and international bodies such as the Ministry of Higher Education and UKRI. His collaborative network spans globally renowned institutions, reinforcing the impact and reach of his research. In recognition of his scientific contributions, Dr. Arutchelvan was awarded the Outstanding Researcher in Parasitology by the Venus International Foundation in 2025. He is also an active member of international scientific initiatives, including the European COST Action on Blastocystis under the One Health framework. Beyond research, he contributes as a journal editor, reviewer, and academic leader, shaping the next generation of scientists in parasitology and microbiome research

Dr. Issa Khan joined in 2015 at the Department of Shariah and Management, Academy of Islamic Studies, University of Malaya as a Senior Lecturer after completing his Ph.D. in Takaful (Islamic Insurance) with Bright Sparks Scholarship from the University. He was also awarded an amount of money for completing this degree within three to four years. Prior he had been awarded the University of Malaya Fellowship for the Master's Programme in Islamic Financial Transactions.   In 2014,  he received Bronze Medal Award from APIUM Academic Open Week (Minggu Terbuka Akademik) and the Best Paper Award from Islamic Finance and Property Research Seminar (Seminar Penyelidikan Kewangan Dan Kehartaan Islam), the University of Malaya in 2013.  Moreover, he achieved his B.A.(Hon’s) degree in Islamic Studies and Da’wah from Darul Ihsan University, Bangladesh. Earlier, he completed Takmil (Dawra Hadith) in Hadith from Jamiyah Arabiyah Makzanul Ulum, Mymensingh, Bangladesh.    

Mala Rajo Sathian is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Southeast Asian Studies and the founding coordinator of the Thai studies programme, both at Universiti Malaya, Malaysia. She previously held visiting research affiliations at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani campus, Thailand, and as a Fulbright Scholar at the Department of Anthropology, Harvard University, US. Her areas of research include Thailand, south Thailand and north Malaysia, relating to ethnicity and marginalisation, diasporas, conflict, governance and histories of nation building. Her publications include: Siamese in Malaysia: Beyond sixty years of heritage (2018) and various articles and chapters on ethnic minorities, identity, conflict and methodology in area studies.  She hopes to advance a message of peace and tolerance towards minority communities living in multicultural Southeast Asia through her research and writing.