Malaysia’s First Women Ophthalmology Forum Commemorates International Women’s Day

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

On 7 March 2024 Roche Malaysia Sdn Bhd launched the inaugural Empowering Visions: Malaysia Women Ophthalmology Forum in conjunction with International Women’s Day.

Moderated by talk show host Freda Liu, the forum featured the following prominent panelists:

  • Datuk Dr Nor Fariza Ngah, Deputy Director of Health, Research & Technical Support
  • Dr Tara Mary George, a consultant ophthalmologist
  • Dr Shamala Retnasabapathy, a consultant ophthalmologist

The panelists covered a multitude of relevant topics such as breaking barriers and overcoming stereotypes, patient care, the importance of interpersonal skills, the significance of continuous education as well as the professional development of women in the medical profession.

WOMEN BRING VALUE THAT CAN ELEVATE THE MEDICAL PROFESSION

According to Datuk Dr Nor Fariza, women bring a distinct perspective that enriches the profession and elevates patient care.

“In a domain where empathy, communication, and meticulousness reign supreme, women’s inherent strengths make them indispensable contributors,” she said during the forum.

She added: “Moreover, diverse representation ensures healthcare systems are attuned to the varied needs of patients, including those specific to women. By championing and empowering women in ophthalmology and healthcare at large, we not only advance gender equality but also enhance the caliber and efficacy of healthcare provision for all.”

A COMPASSIONATE APPROACH TO OPHTHALMOLOGY

Dr Tara Mary George said: “It is the compassionate approach commonly associated with us women which can significantly enhance patient care. Through empathetic communication and understanding, we can alleviate fears, clarify treatment plans, address patient concerns with as much sensitivity and understanding as possible, and cultivate a supportive environment where patients feel valued and heard.”

FAMILY SUPPORT VITAL FOR WORK-LIFE BALANCE

This key point was brought up by Dr Shamala Retnasabapathy, who said, “The supportive role of family is pivotal in achieving work-life balance, contributing to the empowerment of women in their professional endeavors.”

For her fellow women in the field of ophthalmology, she advised no to neglect continuous education and professional development, as these are essential when it comes to staying abreast of the latest advancements.

“This is another way of showcasing our commitment to providing the highest standard of care to their patients while contributing to the advancement of the field as a whole—and how we pave the way for greater inclusivity, diversity, and progress within the profession,” she added.

AN INITIATIVE TO CHAMPION DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Choong Mei Chen, who is the Ophthalmology Country Disease Area Lead for Roche Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines and Indonesia, told us that initiatives such as the Empowering Visions: Malaysia Women Ophthalmology Forum send a resounding message of support and empowerment.

“Together, let us boldly challenge the status quo, dismantle barriers, and pave the way for a future where every individual, regardless of gender, enjoys equal opportunities to excel!” she said.

Malaysian Society of Transplantation Calls for More Organ Donation Pledges Among Malaysian University Students

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

On 14 February 2024, the Malaysian Society of Transplantation, in collaboration with the National Transplant Resource Centre and the Ministry of Higher Education, launched the Varsity P.U.L.S.E (Pledge for the Urgent Life Saving Efforts).

This event was launched at Hospital Al-Sultan Abdullah UITM Puncak Alam by Datuk Dr Nor Fariza Ngah, the Deputy Director-General of Health, to mark the beginning of an annual campaign engaging all universities nationwide, regardless of public or private status.

Datuk Dr Nor Fariza Ngah stated during the launch: “Our organ donation rate is among the lowest globally. With 9,641 patients awaiting organs, each representing a person with a family, dreams, and hopes for a better life, it’s our responsibility to raise awareness and create a significant impact, fulfilling the true purpose of Varsity P.U.L.S.E–to ignite awareness among university students, the future generation of our nation.”

THE NEED FOR ORGAN DONATIONS REMAINS LARGELY UNFULFILLED

The most recent data indicates that there are 9,641 transplant patients waiting for their lifesaving procedures. The highest demand is for kidney transplants, both for adults (9,211) and pediatric cases (397).

Shockingly, only 1.07% of the population is currently registered as organ donors, underscoring the urgent need for action.

Varsity P.U.L.S.E aims to:

  • Increase awareness of organ donation among the younger generation in Malaysia
  • Dispel prevalent misconceptions surrounding organ donation
  • Boost the number of organ donor pledges.
CHALLENGES WITH ORGAN DONATION RATES IN MALAYSIA

Despite efforts to increase awareness, misconceptions about organ donation persist, fueled by cultural and religious beliefs.

Additionally, there’s a lack of trust in the healthcare system, with concerns about fairness and transparency in organ allocation processes.

Socio-economic factors also play a role, as many Malaysians are unaware of the benefits of organ donation or lack access to information.

Dr Mohamad Zaimi Abdul Wahab, the organizing chair of the Varsity PULSE, said: “The low rate of organ donation in Malaysia poses a grave threat to the lives of those awaiting transplants. Through Varsity P.U.L.S.E, we aim to foster a culture of awareness, understanding, and compassion among our youth, inspiring them to make a difference by pledging to donate their organs.”

The campaign comes at a time when pledging as an organ donor has never been easier, thanks to the integration of donor registration into the widely used MySejahtera app, facilitating seamless participation for Malaysians across the country.