Nadhiah Abd Rahman

A bit about me:  

I specialise in investment promotion, facilitation, and industry development, particularly in the life sciences sector. Currently, I help shape Malaysia’s vaccine ecosystem by bringing together key stakeholders including industry players, academia, regulatory authorities, and government agencies to strengthen the local pharmaceutical landscape. It’s challenging but fulfilling and knowing that the work contributes to national healthcare resilience keeps me motivated.

Quick-fire Q&A:  

Do you have a favourite quote or mantra?

“You are only limited by yourself.” Mindset matters and I truly believe that growth happens when you continuously challenge your own boundaries.

What are you currently reading/listening to?

I’m reading The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins. It was a thoughtful gift from my boss. A great guide for navigating career transitions, if I ever need to.

What recent habits have improved or changed your life? 

Listening to audiobooks and reading the Quran. One feeds the mind, the other feeds the soul.

What was your most memorable experience from your time at UNSW?  

My time in the lab during Honours. It was definitely intense and very hands-on, teaching me analytical thinking and resilience. Totally rewarding! 

How did your time at UNSW help shape who you are today?

Being surrounded by people from different cultures and disciplines broadened my perspective. Those experiences enhanced my adaptability and reinforced the importance of embracing different viewpoints, both of which have been invaluable in my career.

What do you enjoy most about working in your profession?

It is dynamic, meaningful, and never boring! Being able to contribute to national healthcare initiatives is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it is helping to approve an R&D project or improving access to vaccines, seeing real-world impact makes all the hard work worth it.

What advice would you give a student approaching the end of their degree?

Stay open to opportunities beyond the obvious. Your degree is just the starting point. Where you go from here is up to you.

Why is science important?

Science is the foundation of discovery and progress. It drives innovation, improves lives, and helps us address some of the world's biggest challenges. A robust scientific ecosystem nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving, and informed decision-making, ultimately shaping a better future for society.

Share how your skills and career journey are contributing to solving real-world challenges, fostering innovation, or improving societal wellbeing.

My work is all about enabling science-driven industries to grow through strategic investment and policy facilitation. Developing an industry like vaccines is not easy. It means bridging the gaps between scientific innovation, business feasibility, and policy recommendation. But it’s worth it because, in the end, we’re building something bigger: a more self-sufficient, prepared, and resilient healthcare system.