Earlier this month, I had the privilege of contributing to the inaugural Sleep Conference in Kuching, Sarawak, under the banner of the Sleep Disorder Society of Malaysia (SDSM). As a committee member, I’ve attended many academic gatherings over the years—but this one felt different.

It was my first visit to Kuching, and I was genuinely touched by the people I met. From the moment I arrived, the kindness, warmth, and humility of the local community stood out. It reminded me that behind every clinical discipline, there is always a human element—one that motivates us to serve, teach, and collaborate.

What made the experience even more special was the opportunity to reconnect with many former colleagues, students, and industry partners. These relationships form the backbone of academic medicine, and events like this remind us how interconnected our professional journeys truly are.

Sharing Lessons from Singapore: Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation

During the conference, I presented on a topic that’s close to my heart: hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) for obstructive sleep apnea. My insights were based on my fellowship training at SingHealth, Singapore, where I had the chance to work alongside leaders in upper airway stimulation therapy.

I was deeply encouraged by the interest and engagement shown by the audience in Sarawak. Many clinicians approached me afterward to discuss how these techniques might benefit their own patient populations. Clearly, the demand for innovative sleep solutions is growing—not just in urban centres, but across Malaysia, including East Malaysia.

A True Multidisciplinary Effort

Another aspect that made this conference stand out was its multidisciplinary nature. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Ahmad Izuanuddin (President of SDSM) and Dr. Rashidah Yassin (Vice President), the event brought together a diverse group of professionals.

Specialists from ENT, Respiratory Medicine, Neurology, Endocrinology, Dentistry, and several other fields were present. Each brought a unique perspective to the table. Together, we addressed complex sleep disorders with a spirit of shared responsibility and open collaboration. This is the future of sleep medicine—not siloed, but integrated.

Gratitude for the Organising Team

None of this would have been possible without the tireless efforts of the organising teams from Sarawak General Hospital and Hospital Miri. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the Chairpersons, Dr. Kevin Ng Boon Hanand Dr. Benjamin Ng.

Their leadership and attention to detail ensured that the event ran smoothly from start to finish. More importantly, they created a platform where new ideas could be exchanged and lasting connections could be formed.

Looking Ahead

Leaving Kuching, I felt many things: gratitude, inspiration, and above all, hope. This conference was more than a scientific meeting—it was a starting point. A signal that Sarawak is ready to take bold steps in advancing sleep health and patient care.

I truly believe this is only the beginning. As we continue to support and empower local clinicians, researchers, and allied health professionals, the impact will only grow.

We often say that sleep is essential for healing. But as I’ve learned in Kuching, so too is community, collaboration, and compassion.

Until next time, Sarawak. You’ve inspired me more than you know.

As your dedicated ENT Doctor, I also serve as a sleep apnea specialist, offering trusted ENT services to help you breathe easier and sleep better. Contact me for more information