Name: Dr. Gan Chia Ying
Cohort: ME105
Current Role: Doctor & Business Owner
Location: Melaka, Malaysia
From IMU Graduate to Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur
Mother, doctor, café owner, senior home manager—these are just a few of the many hats Dr. Gan Chia Ying wears daily. Her journey, while rooted in medicine, has branched into ventures that reflect her entrepreneurial drive and compassionate spirit. What began as a straightforward path toward becoming a doctor has evolved into an inspiring story of resilience, creativity, and service to others.
Journey at IMU
IMU laid the foundation for Dr. Gan’s professional discipline and adaptability—traits that have guided her through the varied ventures she has pursued since graduation. Her medical training instilled in her a commitment to excellence and empathy—qualities that shine through not only in her medical practice but also in her business and community work.
Achievements Post-IMU
- Building a Coffee Culture in Melaka: Dr. Gan’s first entrepreneurial step came after leaving government service. Noticing the lack of quality cafés in Melaka—and reflecting on how much she spent on coffee—she decided to take matters into her own hands. With no prior experience, she founded Eggxtra, a café that quickly became a favourite among coffee enthusiasts. Despite early challenges, her determination and willingness to learn saw the business grow steadily.
- Expanding Horizons with Eggxcite: During her gazettement at Hospital Melaka, Dr. Gan recognised another gap—limited dining options near the hospital. Acting on that observation, she opened Eggxcite, a second café that caters to hospital staff, patients, and visitors. Known for its healthy meals and bubble tea selections, Eggxcite reflects Dr. Gan’s signature blend of practicality and creativity.
- Caring for the Elderly with Heart: Beyond the café scene, Dr. Gan channels her medical expertise into managing Senior Garden Elderly Care Centre, where she also serves as the resident doctor. Under her leadership, the home has grown to full capacity and recently expanded with a second branch. She ensures each resident receives attentive, compassionate care, with structured activities to keep them physically active, mentally sharp, and emotionally fulfilled. Her medical knowledge enables her to proactively monitor and manage their health, setting a gold standard for elderly care.
- A New Chapter: The Big Tree Medical Centre: Set to launch in 2023, The Big Tree marks Dr. Gan’s next ambitious venture—a 100-bed medical centre offering integrated care with a dialysis centre, physiotherapy unit, traditional Chinese medicine facilities, and a pharmacy. She is currently completing her hospital attachment in preparation for overseeing the dialysis centre to ensure the highest standard of patient care.
Inspiration and Defining Moments
Each of Dr. Gan’s ventures began from a place of observation, curiosity, and courage to act. Her ability to identify community needs and create meaningful solutions is what sets her apart. Whether she’s treating patients, brewing coffee, or improving senior care, her motivation remains the same—to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Overcoming Challenges
Juggling multiple businesses, medical duties, and motherhood is no small feat. Yet Dr. Gan navigates these responsibilities with remarkable focus and discipline. Her story is one of perseverance and adaptability—embracing every challenge as an opportunity to grow and refine her purpose.
Advice to Young Graduates
“Don’t limit yourself to one path. Be brave enough to explore, learn, and take risks—because sometimes the most fulfilling journeys are the ones you never planned.”
Impact on Society
Dr. Gan’s journey is a testament to innovation, compassion, and determination. Through her work in healthcare, entrepreneurship, and elderly care, she embodies the IMU spirit of excellence and service. Her story reminds us that success isn’t just about professional titles—it’s about touching lives and uplifting communities in every way possible.