By Niza Shimi
Taking a break from the baffling world politics, I’m a bit taken aback by the intrusive questions about the personal life of the young Malaysian doctor, Dr. Nur Amalina Che’ Bakri, that were reported by the local media. Apparently, their interest in Dr. Amalina outshines their curiosity about the face of a celebrity’s baby.
This high-achieving young doctor is married to Alexander Charles since April 2021 and recently gave birth to a baby girl named Arabella Mia.
According to Hype, recently Dr. Amalina held a “Ask Me A Question” session on her Instagram. One of her followers posts a question, asking about the status of her husband’s religion.
Dr. Amalina retorted with, “Apa punya soalan mcm ni, astagfirullahalazim.” (What kind of question is that? I seek forgiveness from Allah).
It is understood that Muslims can only marry Muslims. In Malaysia, the intended spouse would have to convert to Islam to get a marriage permit. In some countries, Muslims can marry "people of the book" which includes Christians and Jews. But such marriages are not recognized in Malaysia.
Actually, I commend Dr. Amalina for patiently replying to a myriad of seemingly innocuous questions from netizens who are probably curious, naïve, or just obnoxious. She is living the life they can only dream of. Kudos to her for responding.
Dr. Amalina is destined for great achievements, that’s for sure. This young lady is an outstanding example of how far young Malays can go with education. I use her as an example because she is an influencer of sorts.
But when you have already caught headlines for obtaining 17 A1s in your Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia in 2004, you can’t help but be a minor celebrity. It’s like suddenly you are everybody’s idol, sister, daughter, niece, whatever.
Perhaps some are upset that she changed. From the innocent schoolgirl, she took off her tudung and became just another young student who now spoke with an English accent and later married an Englishman. But she continued to shine academically.
Her personal choices shouldn’t be anybody’s business, really. Fortunately, she is mature enough to not let criticisms bother her. Perhaps she understands it’s because they expected too much from her. Many still see her as that young girl with 17A1s.
According to her biodata, Dr. Bakri (that’s how she is referred to professionally) is a Clinical Research Fellow at the Institute of Global Health Innovation, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London.
She won the Darzi Clinical Research Fellowship and is currently doing a PhD in surgical innovation and breast cancer using wearable activity monitors in order to improve patient outcomes. She also supervises BSc and MEng students and publishes in high-impact journals.
Personally, I like this young lady because she’s pursuing her passion. What she has achieved already in a world where women are being challenged on opportunities for education is commendable. That she wants to inspire Malaysians is exemplary.
In a blog post “Ask Dr. Amalina” on her website that she writes, about her impressive educational background and achievements.
She added, “I love to teach, and I would like to use this platform to raise medical awareness, fight myths and educate the public on the importance of healthy living. My methods are predominantly based on current research evidence to which I will provide references.”
Malaysians, especially young Malay girls, need to know that there are not many who choose medical research as a career. Many see medicine as a means to make money. That too is possible. Education opens women to opportunities at home and abroad. Having the right to choose is precious.
But medical research is a demanding, time-consuming, and painstaking effort. So many have given up. Some high achievers who returned to Malaysia ended up becoming administrators, managers, and directors with little time for research.
Personally, I’m somewhat awed by her achievements. You go, girl!
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