By V. Sivaji
For the very first time Penang will be hosting the Asia-Oceanian Conference of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (AOCPRM) at the Setia SPICE Conference from August 21 to 23, 2025.
Some 1,200 global leaders, specialists and professionals in the field of rehabilitation medicine will gather here and serve as a platform to exchange knowledge, explore breakthroughs in rehabilitation science, and discuss future directions in practice, research, and policy.
The gathering offers a unique blend of academic excellence, professional networking, and cultural experience.
The theme of the conference is “Rehabilitation for a Sustainable Future: Bridging Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact”.
A press conference led by Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai and Ashwin Gunasekeran, chief executive officer of Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) was held in Komtar to announce the details.
Also present was organising chairman of AOCPRM Dr Chung Tzi Yang and Dr Zetty Noreeta Mohd Rozali from Penang GH.
Wong expressed his delight in hosting such a conference in Penang and also in Malaysia for the very first time.
“The hosting of this prestigious conference reflects Penang’s growing influence in the MICE tourism segment. It also serves as a strong impetus for the development of high-value business tourism in the state.
“It is also in line with Penang growing status as a Medhub in Asia as six of the world’s top 30 medical device companies are based here,” said Wong.
Meanwhile, Ashwin added PCEB is proud to support this milestone event, organised by the AOSPRM. Penang is chosen as the host for this congress, following its successful run in Chengdu in 2023, reflecting Penang’s growing
reputation as a top destination for international medical and professional conferences. It is a clear indication of the trust the global community places in our capabilities, infrastructure, and hospitality.
“The conference will have an estimated economic impact (EEI) of almost RM8 million and benefit the state as well,” he added.
Participants for the conference are from China, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Korea, India, Australia among other nations.
Delegates will also take part in several leisure and tour activities, namely, a morning Tai Chi session, held on the SPICE Convention Centrerooftop garden, a symbolic Tree Planting ceremony, gala dinner at the historic Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Hotel, sightseeing tours to explore Penang Heritage Tour – exploring George Town’s UNESCO sites, street art, and Peranakan
culture, Penang Hill and The Habitat, funicular train, sunset cruise and to enjoy the durian experience tour.
Leading companies such as Wistron Medical Technology, Cyberdyne Inc, AbbVie, Robotimize, and Vielight will be showcasing state-of-the-art medical devices and rehabilitation robotics.