HUNDREDS of doctors, specialists, and healthcare leaders thronged the G Hotel Gurney this evening as the state hosted the 65th Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Annual General Meeting and Scientific Meeting.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who graced the state banquet held in conjunction with the congress, praised the organisers for their commitment to bringing the prestigious gathering to Penang.
He congratulated organising chairman Datuk Dr. Parmjit Singh and his team for their hard work, as well as MMA president Datuk Dr. Kalvinder Singh Khaira and the executive councillors for their dedication in advancing the medical profession and safeguarding the interests of both doctors and patients.
“It is truly fitting that MMA has chosen Penang as the host city this year.
“As many of you would have noticed, more and more private medical institutions, specialist centres, and training facilities are sprouting across Penang.
“This shows the confidence placed in our state’s reputation as a hub for quality healthcare. And with such rapid growth, the demand for doctors, specialists, and nurses, from near and far, will only continue to rise,” Chow said in his address during MMA’s state dinner at G Hotel Gurney today.
He commended MMA for being a consistent and influential voice for the medical fraternity, pointing out the association’s role in shaping public discourse on healthcare matters.
“It sometimes feels as though every time the Ministry of Health makes an announcement, MMA is there, ready with a reply.
“Whether in agreement, offering constructive criticism, or pushing for improvements, you always have something to say.
“In fact, I sometimes wonder if the ministry waits to see what MMA will say before deciding how the public will take it! That is the level of influence you carry,” he added.
Touching on education, Chow expressed his shock and disappointment over a recent case where a Penang student was denied entry into a top university despite achieving excellent results.
While the Ministry of Education has since resolved the matter, he stressed that the issue reflects broader challenges in the public university intake system.
“I cannot help but feel that many other talented and deserving youths, including those who aspire to pursue medicine in our public universities, face similar frustrations.
“Sadly, this is not the first time we have heard such stories, and once again, the public university selection system via UPU is under the spotlight.
“I sincerely hope that this issue can be reviewed and fixed, because our young talents deserve a system that is transparent, fair, and truly merit-based,” he emphasised.
Chow also took the opportunity to encourage delegates to enjoy Penang’s culture, heritage, and world-renowned food during their stay.
On behalf of the state government, he extended his best wishes to MMA, expressing confidence in the association’s ability to continue championing the medical community while working closely with stakeholders for a healthier Malaysia.
The event was graced by the presence of Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Datuk Seri Utama Ramli Ngah Talib and his consort, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.
Also present was Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis