From Microbiologist to IT Leader
How Azim Haris Found His Purpose Beyond Science
“Azim, why is the Wi-Fi down?”
“Azim, the air conditioning is too cold.!”
“Azim, my chair broke.”
“Azim, the printer isn’t working.”
“Azim, we need more lab coats.”
Whenever there’s an issue with the internet, electricity, office equipment, or even the smallest matters of comfort at Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY), we all turn to none other than Azim. But who exactly is this go-to problem solver? Meet Azim Haris, our IT and Facilities Manager.
Interestingly, Azim didn’t start his career in IT or facilities management. In fact, he began as a microbiologist, holding a Master’s degree in Applied Microbiology from Universiti Putra Malaysia. After graduating, he worked as a Research Assistant at MARDI (Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute) and later as a Microbiologist at Acumen Scientific Sdn Bhd.
“I enjoyed my time in those roles, but as time passed, I realised it wasn’t quite right for me. I’m not the type to stick to a routine day in, day out. But I still wanted to contribute to society and help where I could,” says Azim, who is a father of four.
Fun fact: Azim is one of the longest serving members at CRMY, having been with the organisation for over 10 years.
In 2013, opportunity came knocking with a job offer from CRMY, then known as CARIF (Cancer Research Institute Foundation), for the role of Laboratory Manager. This role turned out to be more dynamic and hands on than his previous positions, allowing him to manage everything from laboratory operations, staff training, and resource allocation, to safety protocols, equipment maintenance, facility upgrades, and IT leadership. Over the years, he was promoted to Facilities Lead and, more recently, to Manager of the department.
When asked about his transition from science to non-science fields, he shared, “Don’t be afraid of shifting or trying new things. It’s better to try something different than to stay stagnant, always wondering what other opportunities might be out there.”
“I understand why many people fear change,” Azim adds. “There’s a saying that ‘the unknown is the greatest fear of all.’ I took the leap, and in the process, I faced challenges that tested my patience, resilience, and adaptability. When I first joined CRMY, the team was small, just two of us. When my manager left, I was on my own.”
Despite the challenges, Azim values those early days for pushing him to learn quickly and adapt rapidly. Today, his team has expanded, with three people, including himself: Mohamad Haziq Asmadi Mohd Asmadi, the Facilities Coordinator, and Mohd Syamim Hussin, Senior IT Executive. In the next five years, Azim envisions further growth in his department, with three additional team members to support CRMY’s evolving needs.
Among Azim’s proudest achievements is the recent renovation and relocation of CRMY’s offices and laboratories to Level 1, Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) South Tower. Previously, CRMY’s science lab was at Universiti Malaya, while the business side was located at SJMC North Tower. Seven years ago, Azim and his team embarked on a project to unite CRMY’s operations under one roof. Coordinating with various stakeholders and managing extensive paperwork wasn’t easy and there were plenty of hiccups along the way. But thanks to Azim’s dedication and his team’s hard work, the CRMY Science and Business Units now share a single, cohesive space as of November 2023.
“Even though I’m not practising science directly, I still apply my scientific knowledge to keep operations running smoothly,” Azim reflects. Azim’s experience shows that skills are transferable and that, with the right mindset, we can redefine our roles to make an impact, even in fields we did not initially train for. For young professionals out there, do not hesitate to take chances, try new paths, and embrace the unfamiliar. Who knows? You might just find yourself thriving in ways you never imagined.
Your support helps Azim and our dedicated scientists to drive meaningful change in cancer research.