ACHA 2024-Backup240424 – Malaysia Healthy Ageing Society (MHAS)

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Presenting ACHA 2024

Theme: Ageing Successfully - Equitably, Actively & Naturally

The ASEAN Conference on Healthy Ageing 2024 has been organized with the purpose of highlighting and addressing the various challenges and issues with regards to healhty ageing, from a holistic perspective. This conference acts as a platform to discuss the unique challenges of ageing faced throughout the ASEAN continent, which encompasses cultural, ethnic and religious aspects, in addition to global ageing concerns.

The conference will provide participants with the opportunity to enhance their professional development with regards to critical issues in ageing and gain a more holistic understanding on the subject. Furthermore, the conference also offers an excellent platform to network with some of the most eminent thought leaders and prominent minds in the field of ageing.

Book your seat. Explore the world of ageing through the ASEAN Conference on Healhty Ageing 2024 in realising the potential to “Ageing Successfully – Equitably, Actively and Naturally”.

Presenting ACHA 2024

Theme: Ageing Successfully - Equitably, Actively & Naturally

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Book your seat. Explore the world of ageing through the ASEAN Conference on Healhty Ageing 2024 in realising the potential to “Ageing Successfully – Equitably, Actively and Naturally”.

Pre Conference Workshops

Workshop A

TechFit Ageing : Integrating Technology for Holistic Ageing & Wellness

Facilitator : Dr. Vaikunthan Rajaratnam (Singapore)

In this dynamic session, participants will explore the intersection of technology and wellness for seniors. Over three hours, we’ll delve into the latest innovations that are reshaping how the elderly in the ASEAN region approach physical health and social engagement. This interactive session promises to provide insights into practical technology applications, fostering a more active, connected, and enriching aging experience. Whether you’re a senior, a caregiver, or a professional in the field of gerontology, this workshop will offer valuable strategies and tools to support healthy aging in our communities. Join us on the path to TechFit Ageing, where innovation meets vitality, and unlock the potential of technology to enhance every facet of the golden years.

Workshop B

The Business of Healing: A Workshop on Entrepreneurial Pursuits in Retirement

Facilitators :Assoc Prof Dr Syriac Nellikunnel (India)
Professor Nathan Vytialingam (Malaysia)

Embark on a new chapter of purpose and prosperity with ‘The Business of Healing: A Workshop on Entrepreneurial Pursuits in Retirement.’ Tailored for those seeking fulfilment and financial independence in their golden years, this workshop offers invaluable insights into launching and managing a successful venture during retirement. Whether you dream of turning a passion into profit or exploring a new business endeavor, our expert-led sessions will guide you through the intricacies of entrepreneurship. Discover the joy of building a business that aligns with your interests, values, and lifestyle. Join us for an inspiring journey towards a fulfilling retirement, where you not only heal from the daily grind but also contribute to a thriving entrepreneurial legacy. Seize the opportunity to redefine your retirement years with purpose and prosperity!

Workshop C

Crafting Connections: A Practical Workshop on Developing A Person-Centered Engagement and Activities in Dementia Care

Facilitators :

Dr Cecilia Chan, Gerontologist, Dementia Advocate and Activist (Malaysia)

Join us for ‘Crafting Connections,’ an immersive and practical workshop designed to equip caregivers, healthcare professionals, and enthusiasts with the tools to create meaningful engagements and activities in dementia care. This hands-on experience will delve into the art of person-centered approaches, providing participants with actionable strategies and insights. Through interactive sessions, attendees will explore the power of personalized activities that promote connection, joy, and a sense of purpose for individuals living with dementia. Be prepared to unlock your creativity, enhance your caregiving skills, and leave with a toolkit of practical techniques to enrich the lives of those under your care. Join us on this journey of compassion and discover the transformative impact of person-centered engagement in dementia care

Workshop D

Physical Fitness for Seniors – Learning the Art of Exercise to Battle Against Resilience

Facilitators :

Assoc. Prof Dr Mohd. Nahar Azmi, Consultant Sports Physician (Malaysia)
Dr Noor Azliyana Azizan, Physiotherapist (Malaysia)

This unique session is tailored to empower healthcare professionals and also older persons in cultivating a resilient and active lifestyle. Participants will explore a holistic approach to fitness, combining enjoyable exercises with valuable insights on fostering physical resilience. From gentle stretches to adaptive workouts, this workshop aims to make fitness accessible to all seniors, regardless of their current fitness level. This session promises to guide attendees through the art of exercise, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strength, flexibility, and balance in ensuring healthy ageing. Take the first step towards a healthier and more resilient future – join us in this dynamic workshop and unlock the secrets to a vibrant and active senior life!

One Workshop Session : RM180 | RM300 for Two Workshop Purchases

On behalf of the organising committee, it is a pleasure to welcome our esteemed speakers, delegates, partners and colleagues to the 3rd ASEAN Conference of Healthy Ageing (ACHA) 2024 themed “Ageing Successfully – Equitably, Actively and Naturally”. Despite our many threats, the region has shown remarkable growth and achievement over the last decade.None have shown greater resilience than our ageing population.This conference offers a unique opportunity for ageing experts, all healthcare professionals from various multidiscipline and all people interested in healthy ageing to present their latest work, meet, discuss and network with colleagues from the region and abroad to share the best practices and know-how for the betterment of healthy ageing and the older population in the region.

MHAS first launched the first ACHA in collaboration with the Sarawak Convention Bureau, themed ‘Ageing Challenges, Successes and The Journey Ahead’ as a platform for stakeholders in the region to discuss the way forward in managing the issues and challenges of its rapidly ageing populations.Indonesia took up the healthy ageing baton to Bali in 2019 and following the pandemic, MHAS has re-energised the conference to begin again in the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, namely Penang, Malaysia.

Much awaits us in Penang. The organisers have designed a scientific programme that reflects various goals and initiatives as set out by the United Nation’s Decade of Healthy Ageing agenda.Aside from the plenary sessions, we look forward to your participation in the pre-conference workshops and three days of lectures, forums, symposiums, as well as interactive sessions that will cover a broad spectrum of issues in ageing such as healthcare, social participation, community, employability, housing, finance and environmental issues among others. These will be led by an impressive line-up of invited ASEAN, international and local speakers and panellists that will encourage stimulating and rewarding discussions and networking among delegates.

The timing of this conference could not be better as it will be held during the last week of the annual ‘Georgetown Festival’ where the Penang island state and its people pull out all the stops to celebrate its diverse and multi-cultural heritage. At this event, the Penang state Government will launch its age-friendly city initiatives in its efforts in applying to the World Health Organisation to become an age-friendly city.This is very much in line with its existing Penang Vision 2030 where ‘active ageing’ is a key component in transforming into a smart, green and livable city.We hope that you could be a part of this pivotal moment so do plan to come early so that you may enjoy the festivities leading up to the conference.We look forward to your support and value your presence at this exciting conference

ORGANIZING CHAIRPERSON & PRESIDENT

Prof. Dr. Shahrul Bahyah Kamaruzzaman

ORGANIZING CO-CHAIRPERSON

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prem Kumar Chandrasekaran

Dear Colleagues, Friends and Healthy Ageing Advocates,

Welcome to the ASEAN Healthy Ageing Conference! The theme of our conference this year – “Ageing Successfully – Equitably, Actively and Naturally” is indeed very apt after a 3 year-hibernation due to the COVID-19 pandemic to set in motion the United Nations’ (UN) Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030) agenda, a global collaboration bringing together all stake holders for 10 years of catalytic and collaborative action to foster longer and healthier lives. A fundamental change in approaches to ageing is needed as we embrace successful ageing. The paradigm needs to be shifted from a treatment-focused model to a more integrated and preventive care model.

In line with the key domains in the iCOPE (Integrated Care for Older People) framework outlined by World Health Organisation, we have lined up an interesting and varied scientific programme which would cover the depth and breadth in the prevention and management of decline in intrinsic capacity as the population ages and importance of cross specialty multidisciplinary teams working together to improve healthcare for older people. Novel topics and hands-on sessions have also been integrated to enhance learning opportunities.

We hope the programme carved here will give each and every one an opportunity to learn to add life to years in our aging population. The 3-days program promises to change how we think, feel and act towards ageing, cultivating age-friendly environments, creating responsive healthcare systems and providing long term care and support essential to living with dignity.

We hope through this ASEAN Healthy Ageing Conference, medical professionals will continue to learn, enhance and enrich their knowledges which will translate to better and improved care for our older persons.
The programs have been arranged to cater different expectations and aspirations of the delegates. Symposiums focusing on special population, lessons from the pandemic, digital health, lifestyle
interventions as well as many other interesting sessions are carefully crafted to maximize learning opportunities. With an excellent line up of international and local speakers, we strongly believe that there is something in store for everyone attending this conference.

Lastly, let’s make every year count for you and for me, not just by the numbers but by how we live in between.

SCIENTIFIC CHAIRPERSON

Dr. Wong Teck Wee

SCIENTIFIC CO-CHAIRPERSON

Dr. Kejal Hasmukharay

Organizing Committee

ADVISORS

(MHAS) Professor Nathan Vytialingam

Dr. Muruga Raj A/L Rajathurai (CMA)

ORGANIZING CHAIRPERSON
Prof. Dr. Shahrul Bahyah Kamaruzzaman

SCIENTIFIC CHAIRPERSON
Dr. Wong Teck Wee

TREASURER
Datin Ranuga Devy M. Packirisamy
Ms. Rejina Maniam

MARKETING & PROMOTION
Mr. Darren Atkinson

COMMITTEE MEMBERS (PENANG)
Dato’ Gulab Mahatam Rai
Dr. Alan Ch’ng
Dr. Keng Jun Ni
Mr. Mohammad Munzir Khairudin
Ms. Ooi Siew Chen
Ms. Michelle Anne Richards

COMMITTEE MEMBERS
(MMA PENANG)
Dr. Prabhu Ramasamy
Dato’ Dr. Parmjit Singh
Dr. Divagar Varatha Raju

ORGANIZING CO-CHAIRPERSON
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prem Kumar Chandrasekaran

SCIENTIFIC CO-CHAIRPERSON
Dr. Kejal Hasmukharay

SPONSORSHIP
Datuk Dr. N. Ganabaskaran
Dr. Dhashani Sivaratnam
Mr. Len Min Sin

SECRETARY
Dr. Sangeeta Kaur
Mr. Ali Faris Rizal
Ms. Dharshini Navanethan

COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Prof. Dr. Tan Maw Pin
Dr. Sivaneswaran Poobalasingam
Dr. Shane Varman A/L Pannir Selvam
Ms. Joyce Leong
Mr. Thillainathan Krishnan

Malaysia Speakers

YB Jagdeep Singh Deo A/L Karpal Singh
Deputy Chief Minister II
Penang State Government

Dato’ Seri Dr. Thamboo Pragasam Devaraj
Chairman
Penang Hospice Society

Datuk Dr. N. Ganabaskaran
Past President
Malaysian Medical Association

Datin Ranuga Devy M. Packirisamy
Advocate & Solicitor
Ranuga & Associates

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prem Kumar
Consultant Neuropsychiatrist
Penang Adventist Hospital

Dr. Muruga Raj A/L Rajathurai
President
Commonwealth Medical Association

Dr. Sivaneswaran Poobalasingam
Chair, Lifestyle Medicine Global Alliance

Dr. Sivabala Selvaratnam
Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Seberang Jaya Hospital

Dr. Wong Teck Wee
Consultant Interventional Cardiologist
iHEAL Medical Centre

Dr. Alan Ch’ng
Consultant Geriatrician
Seberang Jaya Hospital

Dr. Lim Poh Hin
Consultant Neurologist
KPJ Ampang Puteri

Dr. Yap Lok Huei
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Prince Court Medical Centre

Dr. Irene Looi
Consultant Neurologist
Seberang Jaya Hospital

Dr. Sangeeta Kaur
Secretary
Malaysian Healthy Ageing Society

Ms. Sheila Menon
Principal & Director
London College of Clinical Hypnosis Asia

Dr. Cecilia Chan
Gerontologist, Dementia Advocate & Activist
Bagan Specialist Centre

Associate Professor Dr. Jacob John
Department of Restorative Dentistry
Universiti Malaya

Prof. Dr. Shahrul Bahyah Kamaruzzaman
Professor of Geriatric Medicine
Faculty of Medicine
Universiti Malaya

Professor Nathan Vytialingam
Dean, School of Occupational Therapy
Perdana University

Prof. Dr. Sasheela Sri La Ponampalavanar
Professor in Infectious Disease
University of Malaya

Prof. Dr. Tan Maw Pin
Professor of Geriatric Medicine
Faculty of Medicine
Universiti Malaya

Prof. Dr. Julia Patrick Engkasan
Professor in Rehabilitation Medicine
University of Malaya

Prof. Dr. Vickneswaran Mathaneswaran
Professor of Neurosurgery
Universiti Malaya

Prof. Dr. Premnath Nagalingam
Director, Surgical Training & Research
RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sethu Thakachy Subha
Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery Consultant
Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah & Universiti Putra Malaysia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Reena Rajasuriar
Centre of Excellence for Research In AIDS
University of Malaya

Dr. Shane Varman
Consultant Psychiatrist
International Medical University

Dr. Leela Koran
Senior Lecturer in Languages and Linguistics
Universiti Malaya

Dr. Kejal Hasmukharay
Consultant Physician and Geriatrician
Universiti Malaya

Dr. Shazlin Amir Hamzah
Research Fellow, National Institute of Ethnic Studies
National University of Malaysia

Dr. Anne Jamaludin
Head of Psychology Department, UCSI University

Mr. K. Siladass
Advocate & Solicitor
K. Siladass & Partners

Mr. Thillainathan Krishnan
Senior Occupational Therapist
Ministry of Health Malaysia