THE National Heart Institute (IJN) has strengthened its specialist heart-rhythm research capabilities with Consultant Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist Dr Suraya Hani Kamsani becoming the first Malaysian woman to obtain a PhD in electrophysiology.
Dr Suraya received her Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Adelaide, Australia, marking a milestone for IJN’s efforts to develop clinician-scientists who combine advanced medical practice with research and scientific innovation.
Electrophysiology is a highly specialised field of cardiology focused on diagnosing and treating abnormal heart rhythms.
Her clinical and research work focuses particularly on atrial fibrillation and advanced ablation technologies, including pulsed field ablation (PFA), an emerging treatment for abnormal heart rhythms.
She has contributed to research involving PFA, including first-in-human research in the field, while continuing her clinical responsibilities in diagnosing and managing complex heart rhythm disorders.
Acting IJN Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Dr Shaiful Azmi Yahaya said the achievement reflected the importance of integrating clinical expertise with research as cardiovascular medicine becomes increasingly complex and technology-driven.
“Clinical excellence today cannot depend solely on experience in the treatment room. It must also be grounded in research, evidence and continuous learning. When our specialists are actively involved in research and advanced academic work, they are better positioned to evaluate new technologies, challenge existing practices and bring meaningful advances into patient care.
“Dr Suraya’s achievement is therefore significant not only for her personally, but for IJN and Malaysian cardiovascular medicine. We want to develop more clinicians who can contribute to the body of scientific knowledge while continuing to care for patients. That is how we strengthen our capability as a national heart centre and contribute to advancing cardiovascular care beyond our own institution,” he said.
Dr Suraya continued her clinical practice while pursuing her doctoral research, building on her work in advanced electrophysiology procedures, including catheter ablation and the implantation and management of cardiac rhythm devices.
Her research and publications have covered atrial fibrillation, PFA, cardiac pacing and emerging technologies in electrophysiology.
Dr Suraya said her doctoral journey had strengthened the link between research and clinical decision-making.
“For me, pursuing a PhD was never simply about obtaining another qualification. Research teaches us to question, to examine evidence more critically and to understand why we do what we do in clinical practice. Ultimately, that knowledge has to come back to the patient whether through better decision-making, safer procedures or new approaches to treatment,” she said.
IJN said the achievement also highlighted opportunities for Malaysian clinicians, particularly women, to pursue highly specialised areas of cardiovascular medicine and contribute to international research and innovation.
The institute said it would continue strengthening research, education and specialist development alongside its clinical services to ensure advances in cardiovascular science are translated into improvements in patient care. - October 5, 2026
