BEYOND its tourism appeal, Penang has emerged as a dynamic hub for medical tourism, higher education and health technology, says state Exco for Youth, Sports and Health Daniel Gooi Zi Sen.
Welcoming over 800 delegates from 18 countries to the 11th Asia Pacific Enterostomal Therapy Nurses Association (APETNA) Conference 2025 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre today, Gooi, representing Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, said Penang takes pride not only in its rich history and renowned cuisine but also in its growing role in regional healthcare advancement.
He described Penang as privileged to host this prestigious and meaningful gathering of experts, practitioners, educators and thought leaders from across the Asia Pacific region and beyond.
“This conference symbolises regional cooperation, knowledge exchange, and a shared commitment to improving quality and safe patient care, particularly in stoma, wound and continence management,” Gooi said.
“Events like APETNA create intergenerational value. It’s heartening to see both experienced and young healthcare professionals, educators, and students participating. You are the torchbearers of tomorrow. Conferences like this empower you to build networks, adopt best practices, and rise as future leaders in your field.”
Gooi added that in a world increasingly challenged by healthcare disparities, ageing populations and chronic diseases, the importance of such conferences cannot be overstated.
“Every paper presented, every case shared, and every connection made contributes to a larger mission: improving lives. That, ultimately, is what healthcare is all about.”
He also thanked the organising chairman, Mariam Mohd Nasir, and her M&T Network Consultancy Services team, and Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia for the successful organisation of the conference.
Gooi invited delegates to stay on after the conclusion of the conference and join in celebrating the 17th anniversary of George Town’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on July 7.
This is the second time Malaysia has hosted APETNA, with the first held in Kuala Lumpur in 2005, when the association held its inaugural conference.
Prof Dato’ Dr Ab Rahman Izaimi Ghani @ Ab Ghani, director of Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia (HPUSM), extended warm greetings on behalf of USM Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed, who was unable to attend due to prior commitments.
Highlighting this year’s conference theme, ‘Creating Connections: Building Bridges Together’, Prof Dato’ Dr Ab Rahman said the event marked a historic milestone, as it is the first time USM is partnering with a private entity — M&T Network Consultancy Services — at such a scale for a healthcare event in the Asia Pacific.
“This partnership stands as a compelling example of how public and private institutions can work together to advance education, promote excellence and most importantly, improve lives.
“As we embark on the days ahead, let us remember that behind every stoma, every wound, and every case of incontinence is a human being — someone who looks to us not just for clinical expertise, but also for hope, dignity and the promise of a better quality of life.
“Let us approach this conference with open minds, open hearts, and a shared determination to learn, grow, and return to our communities better equipped to serve.”
Organising chairman Mariam Mohd Nasir, who is also the CEO of M&T Network Consultancy Services, said the conference provides an important opportunity for nurses across the region to present their research and hone their presentation skills.
Another platform was also created for nursing practitioners to showcase their creativity through educational videos that reflect excellence in wound and continence care.
“APETNA 2025 is more than just a conference; it’s a movement of knowledge, compassion and global connection,” said Mariam.
“We’re proud that Penang is not only hosting world-class scientific exchange, but also exemplifying the Malaysian spirit of care, inclusivity and service.”
A pre-conference workshop was held yesterday, featuring speakers such as Laurent Chabal from Switzerland, president of the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists, who spoke on managing stomal prolapse.
Co-chairman Dr Muhammad Asyraf Othman said the conference, which runs until July 6 (Sunday), includes engaging workshops, insightful discussions, and networking opportunities. Highlights include free mammogram screenings, EXERDANCE (exercise and dance) sessions, and visits to local hospitals.
“This conference promises to be an enriching experience for all delegates,” Dr Muhammad said.
Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) CEO Ashwin Gunasekaran shared that Penang continues to lead in hosting medical-related conferences, followed by events in medical science and pharmaceuticals. For APETNA 2025, he estimated the economic impact to be around RM7.8 million.
Also present at the conference was Prof Dr Zaidi Zakaria, adviser to APETNA 2025.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi