On any given day, our molecular labs can effectively process up to 40-50 patient samples coming in from various sources. However, during the peak pandemic period, our sample size increased from 50 a day to 5000 samples a day. We had to increase our working capacity by a hundred times, overnight.

The biggest challenge that we faced during this time was how to keep our operations running smoothly, while keeping our team protected from direct virus exposure. With the urgency of the situation in mind, we started expanding our lab capacity, bringing in more equipment and people in just under three days.

For me, the most important episode during this period was the unity that our team displayed. From five people running a lab, we went to 20 people working around the clock. From assistants to lab managers and even our senior management, everyone was hands-on to help us process the samples. Through teamwork and dedication to serve our patients to the best of our capabilities, we were able to release up to 4500 results a day.

Of course, many people in the team did get fatigued, but they persevered. It was definitely challenging working eight hours continuously in PPE and under such pressure, where everyone needs the results immediately. But, we simply kept going. At the end of the day, I am glad that in Malaysia the percentage of positive cases is still relatively low. That is the good news for me at the end of every long day.

• To find out more about ‘A Hundred Unsung Heroes’ click here:
  https://www.mhtc.org.my/mhtc/2020/10/21/paying-tribute-to-frontliners-malaysia-healthcare-expresses-gratitude-to-the-nations-marvellous-unsung-heroes/

Download the Malaysia Healthcare Chronicles

Discover Malaysia, the World’s Healthcare Marvel