On 6 August 2021, Sunway University Press successfully organised an Authors on Authors public conversation on occupational safety and health in a talk titled Occupational Safety & Health: Present Challenges & Prospects.
OSH practitioners Ho Xiaojun and Chuah Chong Ken shared their experiences in dealing with current pressing issues in OSH, and the importance of nurturing future officers in the field. Clinical psychologist Prof. Alvin Ng provided insights into mental health at the workplace and shared tips on maintaining healthy habits whether working from home or at the office.
Clockwise from top-left: Ho Xiaojun, Chuah Chong Ken and Professor Alvin Ng
During the discussion, the speakers spoke briefly about the history of DOSH and the various acts governing OSH in Malaysia. The conversation moved onto how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected safety at work and that it may potentially bring about new OSH laws and policies. Mental health, a key concern amongst participants, was discussed at length with Prof Alvin Ng providing useful methods on coping with challenges.
The event was officiated and graced by Prof. Elizabeth Lee (CEO of Sunway Education Group) and Prof. Graeme Wilkinson (Vice-Chancellor of Sunway University). Attendees included academics from all over Malaysia, OSH officers, human resource personnel, OSH students and researchers, and interested members of the public.
The forum was followed by the launch of the book Staying Safe at Work: A Guide to Occupational Safety & Health written by Ho Xiaojun and Chuah Chong Ken. Prof. Alvin Ng, who is also Founding President of the Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology, contributes a chapter on managing mental health in the workplace.
A replay of the event is available on Facebook - https://fb.watch/7gxcx3Y1D8/ The book is available online at press.sunway.edu.my and in major bookstores such as Kinokuniya, MPH, and Gerakbudaya.
