The Malaysian Society of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine (MSPTM) has appointed Adela Ida Jiram as its 63rd president. A biomedical scientist at the Institute for Medical Research (IMR), Ms Jiram makes history as the first Sarawakian and Iban woman to lead the national scientific body. The announcement coincided with the society’s 62nd Annual Conference held in Ipoh on 30 and 31 March 2026. This appointment marks a significant return for the MSPTM presidency to the IMR where the society was originally founded in 1964.
The recent conference drew 293 participants from 11 countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan and Singapore. A multidisciplinary team from the IMR represented various units such as Entomology and Bacteriology. A key highlight was the Sandosham Memorial Lecture delivered by Dr Nazni Wasi Ahmad which focused on innovative vector control solutions. Additionally 128 participants engaged in a community outreach programme designed to connect laboratory research with public health needs.
Ms Jiram takes office at a time when Malaysia is looking to increase its international scientific visibility. Her priorities include mentoring younger researchers and improving collaboration between various institutions. She expressed a desire to raise the national profile of the society and highlight the continued relevance of tropical medicine. “I am deeply honoured by the trust placed in me to serve as president of MSPTM,” she said. “I want to help mentor young scientists, strengthen collaboration across the field and raise the national visibility of the society.”
Beyond the administrative role, Ms Jiram views her presidency as a chance to represent her community on a national stage. She noted that Sarawak possesses significant talent and research potential that can influence global science. “My vision is to open more doors for Sarawakians, especially Ibans, to step forward and be seen in science and national leadership,” she stated. She also commented on her collaborative approach to leadership. “I was motivated by the belief that leadership should bring people together,” she shared. “To build bridges between the Ministry of Health, universities, the public, and even international partners. Because when we connect, our work creates a much bigger impact.”
