On March 8, 2025, the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) marked International Women’s Day with a significant event at the Hospital Kuala Lumpur auditorium. Jointly organised by the MMA’s Women’s Health Committee and MMA Wilayah Persekutuan, this gathering brought together healthcare professionals to discuss and celebrate women’s contributions to the medical field. Approximately 40 participants attended the event, which aimed to foster a deeper understanding of women’s health issues and leadership roles within healthcare.
The program featured insightful talks and a panel discussion titled “Beyond the White Coat: Women Transforming Medical Leadership.” Dr. Sivabala Selvaratnam, Chairman of the MMA Women’s Health Committee, delivered the opening speech and presented a comprehensive talk on “Women’s Health Across the Lifespan,” providing an overview of common health concerns from adolescence to menopause. Dr. Selvarajah Sathaya, Chairman of MMA Wilayah Persekutuan, welcomed the attendees, while Datin Dr. Haliza Binti Abdul Manaf, Deputy Director of the Federal Territory Health Department, officiated the event.
The event included presentations by Dr. Kow Fé Ping, a Family Medicine Specialist, who spoke about “Women’s Health in Primary Care,” addressing holistic care, mental health, and chronic conditions. Dr. Puvanese Rebecca Pillai, a Public Health Specialist, discussed “Public Health Perspectives in Women’s Health,” focusing on the impact of public health policies and programs on women’s wellbeing. Dr. Norashikin Ibrahim, Director & Consultant Public Health Specialist at the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health, presented a talk on “Women’s Mental Wellbeing” and participated in the panel discussion.
The panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Gokitavani Sekar Chandran, Treasurer of MMA Wilayah Persekutuan and Committee Member of MMA Women’s Health Committee, featured Dr. Norashikin Ibrahim, Dr. Hjit Shahrum binti Ismail, Deputy Director (Medical) at Hospital Kuala Lumpur, and Colonel Dr. G. Gnamamalar (R), Vice Chairman of MMA Wilayah Persekutuan. This interactive forum highlighted the achievements and challenges faced by women in medical leadership positions, sparking meaningful conversations about empowerment and growth.
The event underscored the importance of women’s health across various life stages and mental wellbeing, emphasising holistic care and public health perspectives. It was a testament to the MMA’s commitment to supporting and elevating women in healthcare, inspiring future generations of medical professionals. As the world continues to celebrate women’s achievements, events like these remind us of the vital role women play in shaping the healthcare landscape. The MMA’s initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the need for continued support and recognition of women’s contributions to the medical community.
