The 9th edition of the Asia-Oceanian Conference of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine was launched by YB Daniel Gooi, Penang State EXCO for Youth, Sports and Health at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre here.
The conference saw some 1,200 specialists and delegates from 29 countries attending the event.
In his opening address, Gooi shared his enthusiasm in seeing the organisers bringing together such an impressive gathering from across the Asian Oceanian region and beyond, with more than 60% of participants joining them from outside Malaysia.
“The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 1 in 3 persons worldwide could benefit from rehabilitation. The number of people living with disabilities continues to grow, largely due to the increase in chronic non-communicable diseases and rising life expectancy.
“The Asia-Pacific region itself is experiencing rapid and unprecedented ageing of its population, with projections indicating that by 2050, 1 in four 4 will be over the age of 60. Malaysia, too, is on this trajectory, with forecasts suggesting that by 2030, 15% of our population will be aged 60 and above.
“In this context, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine is not only relevant but also essential. It embodies one of the oldest and most enduring principles of medicine. The concept of comprehensive and holistic care has long been fundamental to our profession. Indeed, the “Father of Medicine”, Hippocrates, was said to prescribe not only drug therapy and diet, but also physical and mental exercise, along with spiritual guidance,” said Gooi.
He also added that Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine is one of the most modern branches of medicine. It is developing exponentially, fuelled by advances in medical science, assistive technology, artificial intelligence and rehabilitation robotics.
“The integration of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine into healthcare systems has significantly improved patients’ quality of life, enhanced long-term independence, and reduced the overall burden on health services,” he added.
Meanwhile Dato’ Dr Mohd. Azman Yacob, Director of the Medical Development Division, Ministry of Health added that early intervention and treatment can bring a better quality of life while also contributing to the economy of the country with timely and proper care of those affected.
Also present was Dato’ Dr Fazilah Shaik Alluadin, Director of the Penang State Health Department, Dr Goh Hin Kwang, Director of Penang General Hospital, Ms Tan Mei Phing, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Professor Dr Jianan Li, President of the AOSPRM, Professor Dr Fazah Akhtar Hanapiah, President of the MARP, Dr Chung Tze Yang, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for AOCPRM 2025, Professor Dr Julia Patrick Engkasan, Scientific Chair of AOCPRM 2025, Dr Sa’ari Mohamad Yatim, Head of Rehabilitation Services, Ministry of Health among others.
Various booths displaying the technological advancement in mobility care with robotic and AI advancement were also on display.