KOTA BHARU, KELANTAN, 24 September 2025 – The 4th International Conference on Medical and Health Sciences (ICMHS), organised by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), served as a dynamic and inspiring platform for knowledge exchange, while strengthening expertise and academic networks among local and international specialists across multiple disciplines.

Carrying the theme “Preparing for Future Challenges in Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences,” the recently-held 4th ICMHS was timely, reflecting the urgent need to address global health challenges through innovation and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

USM Health Campus Director, Professor Dr. Shaiful Bahari Ismail highlighted that the conference featured the sharing of ideas ranging from the latest research findings to best clinical practices.

“It reflects our collective determination to tackle complex health challenges of today and the future. As an APEX University, USM remains committed to driving sustainable development, advancing high-impact research, and producing experts and young professionals who serve not only the nation but humanity as a whole,” he said in his closing address.

Shaiful stressed that hosting conferences like ICMHS is vital for building international networks, disseminating valuable knowledge, and sparking new ideas to strengthen health policies and practices aimed at improving the global quality of life.

He also expressed appreciation to all invited speakers, panellists, participants, and the organising committee for their hard work in ensuring the conference’s success.

“Congratulations and thank you to everyone who have contributed their energy, expertise, and passion to help the 4th ICMHS achieve its objectives. This success is the result of such collective efforts and commitment,” he added.

According to him, the spirit of collaboration and inspiration generated throughout the conference must be translated into research outcomes, projects, and policies that directly benefit society.

“In this way, we not only contribute to the advancement of science and medicine, but also help to create a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable world,” he explained.

The conference, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Medical Schools Network (ASEAN Research Collaborative Fund – ARCF) and the 25th National Conference on Medical and Health Sciences (NCMHS), concluded today after three days of sessions from 22 to 24 September.

Earlier, the 4th ICMHS was officially launched on 22 September by the Deputy Director (Public Health Specialist), representing the Director of the Medical Development Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), Dr. Azlihanis Abdul Hadi.

The presence of the MOH representative underscored the ministry’s strong support for USM’s efforts to strengthen the nation’s academic, research, and health policy ecosystem.

This year’s conference successfully brought together nearly 300 local and international participants, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, paramedics, and medical practitioners.

It featured plenary sessions, multidisciplinary symposia, and interactive forums that catalysed research, fostered new collaborations, and enabled the sharing of expertise.

Also present were the Dean of the USM School of Medical Sciences (PPSP), Professor Dr. Kamarul Aryffin Baharuddin; Deputy Dean of Academic, Career and International Affairs PPSP, Professor Dr. Irfan Mohamad; Deputy Dean of Industry–Community Engagement and Development PPSP, Professor Dr. Aziah Daud;  Deputy Dean of USM-KLE PPSP, Associate Professor Dr. Nik Ahmad Zuky Nik Lah; Deputy Dean of Research and Innovation PPSP and Chair of the 4th ICMHS, Professor Dr. Asrenee Ab. Razak; and Co-Chair of the 4th ICMHS, Professor Dr. Liza Sharmini Ahmad Tajudin.

Text: Siti Sri Mas Ismail/Photo: Abdul Hasib Abdul Rahman