USM PENANG, 27 November 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) marked a historic moment when Dr. Ng Jet Kwan, or better known as “Uncle Jet,” 57, received his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at the Fourth Session of the USM 63rd Convocation Ceremony held at Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra (DTSP), USM Penang.

Born in Batu Pahat, Johor in 1968, he is now Malaysia’s oldest MD graduate after successfully completing his studies through the USM+1 pathway.

Since childhood, Dr. Ng had aspired to become a doctor. However, in the early 1990s, opportunities were extremely limited as only four public higher education institutions in Malaysia offered medical programmes, making competition exceptionally tough.

Unable to secure a place in medicine, he instead pursued engineering in the United Kingdom before returning home and later serving professionally in neighbouring Singapore.

More than three decades later, his dream reignited when a friend informed him that USM is offering the MD programme via the USM+1 track.

After reviewing the requirements and qualifications, he found that they matched his academic background. He applied and was grateful to be accepted.

The USM+1 MD programme is a five-year pathway comprising pre-clinical studies in Years 1 and 2 outside USM, followed by full-time clinical training in Years 3 to 5 at the School of Medical Sciences (PPSP), USM Health Campus, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan.

Interestingly, studying alongside classmates who were much younger posed no challenge for Dr. Ng. He described them as among the nation’s best students — helpful, supportive, and welcoming.

The same positive experience extended to lecturers and medical specialists who guided him throughout his training.

“Some lecturers were even younger than me, but that was never an issue. There were also those around my age, and we could discuss matters casually,” he said.

One of his early challenges was understanding the Kelantan dialect. However, he adapted quickly, crediting the warm and friendly nature of Kelantanese people.

In terms of food, he admitted his palate leans more towards Johorean dishes but adjusted well during his time in Kelantan.

Dr. Ng is happily married with two daughters, one currently a resident doctor in the United States and the other a lawyer in Australia. His wife has been his greatest supporter, often accompanying him throughout his studies.

He cites Confucius as his role model, inspired by the philosophy of lifelong learning and kindness to others.

On the secret to succeeding at a later age, Dr. Ng stressed that there is no special formula except the courage to seize opportunities when they arise.

“Health and mental wellbeing are crucial. If an opportunity comes, grab it. We are the ones who shape our own success,” he said.

He expressed deep gratitude to the PPSP Dean, Profesor Dr. Kamarul Aryffin Baharuddin, and his lecturers especially his mentor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Jafri Malin Abdullah, for the invaluable guidance and encouragement, as well as to his classmates.

He also thanked the Malaysian Ministry of Health for policies that enabled him to pursue his childhood dream.

After completing his housemanship, Dr. Ng hopes to obtain his licence and permit to open his own clinic.

He also shared his views on the national healthcare system, noting that it still has room for strengthening, including issues of long working hours and the need for enhanced facilities and medical technology comparable to developed nations.

“I am very proud to be a USM graduate,” he concluded.

Text: Amyrulhan Azhari, Health Campus Director Office & Media and Public Relations Office, Health Campus USM/Photos: MPRC