Our Experts

Datuk Seri Dr. Mohd Azhar Bin Hj. Yahaya is a distinguished expert in psychology testing and personality assessments, with a profound background in industrial and organizational psychology. His academic journey includes a Master of Arts in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from the University of New Haven, Connecticut (1993), and a Ph.D. in the same field from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (2004). He further honed his leadership and strategic management skills through the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School (2009).

With over 35 years of experience in the public sector, Dr. Mohd Azhar has been instrumental in driving psychological services and human resource management initiatives. As the former Director of the Psychological Service Division at the Public Service Department of Malaysia, he played a pivotal role in advancing the use of psychology testing to enhance organizational performance, employee well-being, and leadership development within government institutions.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Mohd Azhar has served in key leadership roles, including as Deputy Secretary-General at the Ministry of Health and Secretary-General at the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI). His expertise in personality testing and behavioral insights has been integral to decision-making processes, particularly in talent management and organizational transformation.

Dr. Mohd Azhar's contributions extend beyond the public sector. As the Chairman of Kumpulan Modal Perdana Sdn. Bhd., a government-linked technology venture capital company under MOSTI, he continues to emphasize the importance of psychological assessments in fostering innovative leadership and dynamic work environments.

Recognized for his ability to merge psychological theories with practical applications, Dr. Mohd Azhar has been a thought leader in integrating personality assessments into strategic organizational frameworks. His efforts have not only enhanced the efficiency of recruitment, training, and development but have also positioned him as a trusted advisor in psychology testing and human capital development across Malaysia.

Dato’ Seri Dr. Chen Chaw Min received his Bachelor in Surveying (Second Upper) from the University of Technology, Malaysia in 1985 and a Master in Business Administration (Finance) from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA, in 1997. He subsequently obtained his PhD in Finance from University Putra Malaysia in 2005.

Dato’ Seri Dr. Chen started his career with the Malaysian Civil Service in 1988, holding various key government positions. His first posting was in the Ministry of Rural Development, and from 1990 onwards, he served in numerous divisions within the Ministry of Finance, including the Budget Division, Investment Division, Housing Loan Division, Finance Division, and Fiscal and Economy Division. On 25th April 2014, he joined the Ministry of Health as Deputy Secretary General (Finance), and on 4th July 2015, he was appointed as the Secretary General of the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

During his tenure as Secretary General and until his retirement, Dr. Chen played a pivotal role in several national policy task forces and health-related councils. He was a key figure in Malaysia's fight against Covid-19. He also served as the Chairman of Protect Health Malaysia and was a board member of several government-linked companies, including the National Heart Institute (IJN), National Kenaf & Tobacco, Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM), Malaysia Health Tourism Council (MHTC), and Protect Health Corporation.

Dato’ Seri Dr. Chen has published extensively in international and local journals and has been an invited speaker at international conferences and seminars. He has attended several prestigious short courses, including at Harvard Business School, USA, and Oxford University Said School of Business, UK. He is also an alumnus of the Razak School of Government. Dr. Chen retired officially from civil service on 4th February 2021.

Currently, Dr. Chen serves as the Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Optimax Holding Berhad. He is also a Trustee of Yayasan Sena, Chairman of Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) Holdings Sdn. Bhd., and holds directorships in privately owned healthcare companies such as FOMEMA and Pro Health Medics in Malaysia. Additionally, he is an academic advisor at the Putra Business School at UPM.

Professor Datuk Dr. Leow is widely acclaimed for his stature as an esteemed researcher, consultant, and trainer of distinction. His extensive repertoire of specialized research areas encompasses the intricate realms of human attitudes, behaviors, behavior insights, nudges, behavioral economics, strategic management, human resources, and marketing.

His professional journey has encompassed noteworthy roles, including that of a consultant for the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and a dedicated instructor and lecturer at the esteemed National Academy of Public Administration and Politics in Vietnam.

Dr. Leow's remarkable influence extends to his membership on more than ten editorial boards for diverse academic journals, attesting to his profound scholarly insights. He holds the honorary position of Professor at Nguyen Tat Thanh University in Vietnam. His credentials include the distinguished distinction of being a MIM Certified Professional Trainer (MIM-CPT) and a revered membership within the International Association of Counsellors and Therapists (IACT). Dr. Leow is also a valued member of the Malaysian Institute of Human Resource Management (MIHRM), where he holds the credential of a certified advanced Human Resource Practitioner (Consultant).

A prolific author, Dr. Leow has penned several impactful books, notable among them being titles such as "Body Language Exposed," "Selling with Heart and Soul," "I See, I Hear, and I Conquer," "Trapping the Cunning Fox," "The Flintstones Management," "Nudge Or Fudge," "Predictable Accident," "Pusaka Yang Terpinggir," "Bijak Cukai," "Restructuring of LHDN," and "The Humane Way."

His expertise transcends boundaries, as he was bestowed the privilege of serving as a body language expert contributor for the prestigious Morning Post in Hong Kong, where his astute analysis of nonverbal communication nuances illuminated global issues. Furthermore, he has graced the role of a resource person for Fornes Magazine in Argentina, adding to his international impact and reach.

Presently, he serves as the esteemed advisor on the intricate realm of Body Language at Sin Chew Jit Poh. Furthermore, he assumes the role of a dedicated weekly contributor, gracing the pages of Sin Chew with insightful articles on the symbiotic fusion of psychology and business. His profound insights also find a home in Nanyang Xiang Pao, where he imparts his wisdom on matters of Business Strategy in a bi-weekly fashion. In a parallel endeavor, his expertise graces the columns of China Press, where he explores the nuanced domain of Body Language on a fortnightly basis.

Notably, his transformative acumen has left an indelible mark on illustrious organizations. He played a pivotal role in orchestrating the revitalization journeys of PERODUA and the Department of Fisheries, Malaysia, contributing significantly to their rebranding and transformation endeavors. His influence extended to multifaceted dimensions, encompassing critical realms such as the Petroleum Income Tax Act (PITA) research, succession planning, and the strategic reconfiguration of the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia.

Presently, his sagacious guidance adorns the position of advisor to the Vocational College of Malaysia, lending his expertise to the dynamic realm of Business. Moreover, he stands as a founding member of the esteemed Consultant and Business Management Research Association (CBMRA) and SR-Asia, esteemed platforms that attest to his enduring commitment to advancing the frontiers of consultancy and business management research.

Dr. Vincent Leong, an esteemed member of the International Micro Expressionists Association (IMEXA), continues to influence both academic and professional spheres with his deep expertise in psychology and business management. He holds advanced degrees in Social Sciences, majoring in Psychology, and Business Studies, along with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) focusing on attitudes and behavior.

Dr. Leong's academic credentials are complemented by a range of professional certifications, including qualifications from the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) in various disciplines, Certified Professional Marketer (Asia), and a Train-the-Trainer certification from the Human Resources Development Board Malaysia.

A prolific author, Dr. Leong has expanded his publishing repertoire to include influential works on 'Psychodesign' and 'Tax Risk Assessment,' reflecting his ability to merge psychological insights with practical business applications. His academic contributions are also marked by numerous journal articles and co-authored books on body language, published under the Human Behaviour Academy.

In the realm of consultancy, Dr. Leong has made significant impacts as the chief consultant for manpower optimization and the employee engagement index at the Al-bukhary Group. His role in these projects showcases his strategic acumen in enhancing organizational efficiency and workforce engagement. Additionally, as a member of the transformation team, he has played a pivotal role in steering comprehensive business transformations, further underscoring his expertise in managing and implementing complex change initiatives.

Dr. Leong's engagements extend beyond training and consultancy; he is a sought-after speaker at universities and professional training centers, where he shares his insights on marketing ethics and human behavior. His editorship of several academic and professional texts further solidifies his standing as a thought leader in the fields of psychology and business management.

Dato’ Haji Munir bin Haji Mohd Nawi is a highly respected figure in the field of fisheries and human capital development in Malaysia. With over three decades of experience in public service, he has established himself as a visionary leader who has driven positive change in the nation’s fisheries industry. Throughout his career, Dato’ Haji Munir has successfully championed innovation, strengthened the industry’s competitiveness, and set new benchmarks for leadership in the public sector.

His solid educational foundation has been pivotal to his success. Dato’ Haji Munir holds a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Marine Science from Universiti Pertanian Malaysia (UPM), obtained in 1983, and a Master of Science in Human Resource Development from the same institution in 2000. This combination of technical and management expertise has shaped his holistic approach to the development of the fisheries sector.

Dato’ Haji Munir’s career began as a Fisheries Research Officer, and he progressed through various significant roles, including Head of the Marine Aquaculture Division, Director of Fisheries for the state of Terengganu, and ultimately, Director-General of the Department of Fisheries Malaysia. As Director-General from 2017 to 2020, he led numerous strategic initiatives that significantly impacted the growth of the fisheries industry. These included modernizing the aquaculture sector, advancing research in marine fish breeding, and strengthening conservation policies for marine resources.

As a leader, Dato’ Haji Munir is known for his innovative approach to addressing modern fisheries challenges. Under his leadership, the Department of Fisheries Malaysia introduced effective strategies to enhance productivity, protect marine ecosystems, and ensure the sustainability of natural resources. For instance, he spearheaded experimental projects in marine fish breeding, yielding positive outcomes for the industry.

His contributions are recognized not only domestically but also on the international stage. He has represented Malaysia at numerous international forums, including the FAO Conference in Rome and SEAFDEC meetings. In these platforms, he has been a strong advocate for Malaysia on issues such as marine resource protection and empowering regional fishing communities.

Beyond technical and administrative successes, Dato’ Haji Munir has placed a strong emphasis on human capital development. He has introduced various training and development programs to ensure that the workforce in the fisheries industry is equipped with relevant skills and can compete on a global scale. These efforts have not only improved workforce quality but also contributed to building a more inclusive and prosperous community.

His inclusive and empathetic leadership style continues to inspire many. He is known for his clear communication, unwavering principles of integrity, and commitment to excellence. His approach, which emphasizes trust and engagement with his team, has fostered a positive work culture, making him a respected and admired leader.

Today, Dato’ Haji Munir is recognized as an expert consultant in the fisheries industry. His extensive experience in fisheries development strategies, human resource management, and international diplomacy makes him an invaluable asset to any organization or initiative requiring expertise in this field. His ability to adapt to new challenges while maintaining a focus on long-term outcomes solidifies his relevance in an ever-evolving industry landscape.

In conclusion, Dato’ Haji Munir bin Haji Mohd Nawi is not only an outstanding leader but also a strategic thinker and accomplished consultant. His contributions to the fisheries industry, human capital development, and natural resource conservation leave a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. As a consultant, he offers the insights and expertise needed to drive success in an industry as complex and challenging as fisheries.

Professor Malik Badri (1932–2021) remains an iconic figure in the field of psychology, renowned for his pioneering efforts to integrate Islamic principles with modern psychological practices. Born in Sudan, Professor Badri dedicated his life to bridging the gap between Western psychological frameworks and Islamic teachings, establishing himself as a leading authority in Islamic psychology. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the field, inspiring generations of psychologists, scholars, and mental health practitioners.

A Visionary in the Islamization of Psychology

Professor Badri’s most significant contribution was his advocacy for the Islamization of psychology. He recognized that many Western psychological theories, while valuable, often lacked consideration of the spiritual dimensions of human existence. For Professor Badri, this omission made these theories incomplete, particularly when applied to Muslim societies, where faith and spirituality play an integral role in shaping identity and behavior.

In his groundbreaking book, The Dilemma of Muslim Psychologists, Professor Badri highlighted the challenges faced by Muslim psychologists in reconciling their faith with Western psychological practices. He argued that psychology, as a science of the mind and behavior, must consider the spiritual and moral aspects of humanity to provide a more holistic understanding. This work not only sparked discussions about the limitations of secular psychology but also inspired the development of an Islamic framework for mental health.

A Thought Leader and Educator

Professor Badri’s academic contributions were unparalleled. He authored several books and articles that provided insights into how Islamic teachings could enhance psychological practices. His seminal work, Contemplation: An Islamic Psychospiritual Study, explored the practice of tafakkur (contemplation) as a tool for self-reflection and spiritual growth. In this book, he demonstrated how Islamic practices like dhikr (remembrance of God) and dua (supplication) could be used to promote mental well-being.

As an educator, Professor Badri served as a professor in various universities across Sudan, Malaysia, and the United States. His ability to blend rigorous academic research with Islamic principles earned him the respect of his peers and students. He mentored numerous psychologists and scholars, encouraging them to contribute to the burgeoning field of Islamic psychology.

Integrating Faith and Therapy

One of Professor Badri’s most remarkable achievements was his ability to demonstrate how Islamic practices could be seamlessly integrated into therapeutic approaches. He argued that mental health issues could not be fully addressed without acknowledging the spiritual needs of individuals. By incorporating practices such as prayer, fasting, and Quranic recitation into therapy, Professor Badri showed how these elements could provide both psychological relief and spiritual enrichment.

His work was particularly influential in Muslim-majority countries, where Western approaches to psychology were often viewed as culturally incompatible. Professor Badri’s methods provided a culturally sensitive alternative that resonated deeply with Muslim patients and practitioners alike.

Global Recognition and Legacy

Throughout his life, Professor Badri received numerous awards and accolades for his groundbreaking work. His efforts to integrate Islamic principles into psychology earned him recognition as the “Father of Islamic Psychology,” a title that reflects his profound influence on the field. He was a founding member of several international organizations dedicated to Islamic psychology, and his work continues to shape the discipline today.

Professor Badri’s legacy extends far beyond his writings and lectures. He paved the way for a new generation of psychologists to explore the intersection of faith and science. His vision of a psychology that respects and incorporates spiritual values has inspired countless individuals to approach mental health with a more holistic perspective.