Dr Yin-Hui Leong
Celebrating women across the globe to prevent deaths from pesticide self-poisoningSupporting research and surveillance to guide public health policy
Name
Dr Yin-Hui Leong
Job role
Senior Lecturer and Researcher at the National Poison Centre, Universiti Sains Malaysia
Location
Penang, Malaysia
Tell us about your role?
I lead research and surveillance activities on acute pesticide poisoning in Malaysia, working closely with hospitals, the Ministry of Health and the Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention. My work focuses on analysing trends in poisoning, identifying risk factors, evaluating the impact of pesticide regulations and strengthening national surveillance systems. Through multidisciplinary collaboration, I aim to generate evidence that supports effective public health policies and promotes safer pesticide management practices.
Why is this work important to you?
Pesticide poisoning remains a preventable cause of death in many agricultural communities. My research has shown how regulatory actions, such as pesticide bans, can influence health outcomes. I am driven by the desire to translate scientific evidence into policies and public health interventions that protect vulnerable populations and reduce avoidable harm.
This profile has been compiled for International Women’s Day 2026, to celebrate the incredible women worldwide who are helping to prevent deaths from pesticide self-poisoning.