ROBOTIC-assisted surgery is among the latest advancements transforming modern surgical practice, offering new possibilities in precision, innovation and patient care, said state executive councillor Jason H’ng Mooi Lye.
Speaking at the SSMART 2026 – Surgical Symposium on Advanced Robotic Technology at Holiday Inn & Suites Penang Prai in Juru today, H’ng said technological advancement alone was not enough to drive progress in healthcare.
The Penang Local Government and Town & Country Planning Committee chairman stressed that innovation was ultimately powered by the people behind the technology, including surgeons, nurses, allied health professionals, researchers and healthcare institutions.
“It is driven by our surgeons here today who continually refine their skills, the nurses and allied health professionals who provide holistic care, the researchers who push the boundaries of medical science, and the institutions that invest in education and lifelong learning.
“This is precisely why initiatives such as SSMART 2026 are so important.
“Beyond showcasing advancements in robotic-assisted surgery, this symposium creates a valuable platform for knowledge exchange, multidisciplinary collaboration and professional development,” he said.
Also present were Sunway Medical Centre Penang chief executive officer Christine Lee Chwee Ngoh and SSMART 2026 organising chairperson Dr Ann Teoh Ai Yean.
H’ng said platforms such as the symposium enable healthcare professionals to learn from one another, exchange best practices and establish meaningful partnerships that could ultimately translate into better outcomes for patients.
He added that stronger collaboration among the public and private sectors, academia, healthcare institutions and industry was crucial in creating an ecosystem that encourages innovation, attracts investment and nurtures the next generation of healthcare leaders.
“Together, these partnerships will further strengthen Penang’s position as a progressive, competitive and internationally recognised destination for healthcare excellence, medical education and innovation,” he said.
H’ng also congratulated Sunway Medical Centre Penang for organising SSMART 2026, describing the symposium as a meaningful platform that reflects the medical centre’s continued commitment to advancing medical education and healthcare excellence.
He said continued investment in knowledge, technology and collaboration would be essential in ensuring that healthcare advancements ultimately benefit the community.
“Together, let us continue building a Penang where innovation serves people, collaboration drives progress, and every advancement in healthcare contributes to healthier communities and a brighter future for generations to come,” he concluded.
Story by Riadz Akmal