Over 130 Malaysian healthcare professionals convened in Temoh, Perak, for a conference focused on advancements in metabolic health and immunisation, emphasizing the importance of prevention, early detection, and timely intervention. The event brought together general practitioners, medical officers, and allied health personnel to foster collaboration across different levels of care.

The keynote address was delivered by former Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, who shared insights from his extensive experience in healthcare and his leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking on the theme “Local to Global: What it takes to succeed?”, Dr Noor Hisham encouraged healthcare leaders and organisations to embrace the Japanese principles of ikigai and kaizen to maintain a culture of continuous learning. He highlighted the need for ongoing adaptation, creative problem-solving, and innovation, alongside effective communication with the public and policy adjustments in response to evolving circumstances.

Also attending the conference were UTAR Hospital chief executive officer and medical director Datuk Dr Ding Lay Ming, as well as consultant paediatrician Dr Ng Jun Jie, who chaired the organising committee. Dr Ng said the gathering reflected a collective commitment to education, collaboration, and elevating standards of care for the community.

The conference featured presentations by several specialists, including Subang Jaya Medical Centre consultant physician and endocrinologist Dr Hew Fen Lee, bariatric and metabolic surgeon Dr Andrea Ooi Se En from Sungai Long Specialist Hospital, and Putra Medical Centre consultant interventional cardiologist and physician Col (R) Dr Mohamad Anuar Mohamad.

Topics discussed during the event included cardiometabolic syndrome, medical and surgical approaches to managing obesity, child vaccination programs, and nutritional anaemia. This third medical conference hosted by UTAR Hospital demonstrated ongoing dedication to promoting continuous professional development and ensuring healthcare practitioners remain informed about the latest clinical and public health developments.