APETNA 2025: 800 Delegates From 18 Countries Converge In Penang

GEORGE TOWN, July 4 (Bernama) -- Nearly 800 delegates from over 18 Asia-Pacific countries have gathered in Penang for the 11th Asia Pacific Enterostomal Therapy Nurses Association (APETNA) Conference 2025, marking a major milestone for Malaysia’s healthcare sector.

 APETNA 2025 chairman Mariam Mohd Nasir said the three-day conference, which began today, brings together clinicians, nurses, researchers, educators, and industry leaders to share knowledge and advancements in enterostomal therapy.

"APETNA 2025 has exceeded expectations with a remarkable turnout and their presence underscores the growing global commitment to advancing best practices in enterostomal therapy," she told reporters after the official opening ceremony of APETNA 2025 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre here today. The event was officiated by State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen.

Mariam pointed out that APETNA Conference 2025. co-hosted by M&T Network Consultancy Services Sdn Bhd and Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia (HPUSM), is the first collaborative effort between a Malaysian academic medical institution and a private organiser at the Asia-Pacific level.

Held under the theme "Creating Connections, Building Bridges Together”, she said the conference draws inspiration from Penang’s iconic bridges, symbolising the power of unity, diversity, and cross-border collaboration in healthcare.

She noted that the theme reflects APETNA’s broader goal of building strong partnerships across disciplines, countries, and communities in the realm of stoma, wound and continence care.

She said the scientific programme includes a dynamic mix of plenary lectures, clinical workshops and interactive poster presentations as well as international and regional experts sharing insights on the latest innovations in stoma care, wound healing and continence management.

The event also features a healthcare exhibition with more than 20 participating companies, offering a platform for showcasing advanced medical technologies and products.

Meanwhile, Gooi said this gathering is not only a testament to the commitment and vision of the organisers, but also to the importance of continued knowledge sharing and collaboration in advancing healthcare standards. 

"Beyond its tourist appeal, Penang has emerged as a dynamic hub for medical tourism, higher education and health technology. We are proud that Penang is also now recognised for its role in regional healthcare advancement," he also said.

-- BERNAMA