Record Attendance Marks Post-Pandemic Revival

MALAYSIA: The 11th Southern Dental Conference has made a triumphant return to Johor Bahru, drawing approximately 400 dental professionals from across Johor state, according to a recent report from The Star. The event, held at Berjaya Waterfront Hotel, marked the first full-scale conference following a five-year interruption due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Leadership Perspective

“Last year, we were able to organise the conference on a smaller scale. This is the first time we have been able to go full force,” stated Dr Alex Hong, the organising committee chairman, highlighting the significance of the conference’s complete restoration. Dr Hong, who serves as the Malaysian Dental Association Southern Zone secretary, emphasized the event’s role in professional development.

Scientific Programme and Educational Focus

The three-day conference featured an extensive scientific programme, with expert lectures addressing contemporary dental health challenges. A notable focus was placed on emerging health concerns, particularly obstructive sleep apnoea. “Sleep-related breathing difficulties are often due to the tongue and throat muscles relaxing too much, leading to interrupted breathing during sleep,” Dr Hong explained, adding that “This could significantly affect a person’s quality of life as he would wake up many times, unable to have restful sleep.”

Exhibition and Professional Networking

The conference incorporated a substantial trade exhibition featuring 40 booths showcasing dental-related products. While the event primarily catered to dental professionals, it also welcomed other healthcare practitioners. “The majority of participants are dentists, but we also had nurses and other medical staff in dentistry taking part,” Dr Hong noted.

Future Direction and Community Engagement

Looking ahead, the organisers are considering broadening the conference’s scope. “The main aim of the conference was to provide an avenue for knowledge sharing among those in the field. We may consider opening it up to the public to raise awareness on dental health,” Dr Hong revealed. The association’s commitment extends beyond professional development, with ongoing community initiatives focused on promoting dental health awareness.