The National Heart Institute (IJN) recently hosted an exclusive Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) Workshop on 14 October 2025 led by renowned Japanese interventional cardiologist Dr. Yoshihisa Kinoshita, a master in complex coronary interventions and retrograde CTO techniques. Dr. Kinoshita, well-known across Asia for his precision and teaching in advanced CTO strategies, shared his expertise through a series of challenging live cases and interactive discussions.
From Left: Dr Ariff, Dr Yoshihisa Kinoshita, Datuk Dr Shaiful Azmi, Datuk Dr Kumara, Dr Hafidz
During the workshop, two complex CTO cases were performed, showcasing a variety of sophisticated techniques and decision-making approaches. Both cases demanded a high level of wire control and strategic planning, emphasizing the importance of microcatheter support and lesion assessment in successful recanalization.
In addition, two retrograde CTO cases demonstrated the power of Reverse CART (Controlled Antegrade and Retrograde Tracking) — a hallmark of Dr. Kinoshita’s approach — enabling safe and effective crossing in difficult anatomies. He also introduced the use of the Gaia NEXT 4 wire, highlighting its enhanced torque response and penetration capability for resistant lesions.
The workshop provided an invaluable hands-on learning experience for interventional cardiologists, deepening understanding of wire escalation, retrograde strategy, and complication management in CTO PCI. Dr. Kinoshita’s precise technique and clear explanations once again reaffirmed his reputation as a leading educator in the field of complex coronary intervention.
The SeQuent Please NEO IJN Fellowship Training 2025 was successfully held on 4th October 2025 at Alila Bangsar Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. This exclusive fellowship program brought together leading interventional cardiologists from Malaysia and abroad to share the latest updates, practical techniques, and clinical insights on Drug-Coated Balloon (DCB) angioplasty in complex coronary interventions.
The training was chaired by Dato’ Sri Dr. Azmee Ghazi, Dato’ Sri Dr. Azhari Rosman, and Datuk Dr. Ahmad Khairuddin, with a distinguished international faculty including Dr. Tuomas Rissanen (Finland) and top Malaysian experts. (SeQuent Please NEO)
Highlights of the program included:
Latest updates from the 2nd Asia Pacific DCB Consensus (Dato’ Dr. Amin Ariff)
Global perspective on DCB adoption and practice in Finland (Dr. Tuomas Rissanen)
Lesion selection strategies: Go-to zones vs. no-go zones (Dr. Ganapathi Palaniappan)
Challenging case-based discussions on long diffuse lesions, calcified lesions, and bifurcation PCI (Dr. Mohd Tawfeq Mohd Noor, Dr. Lim Yuen Han, Dr. Fa’iz Mashood)
Management of coronary dissections and decision-making presented by Dr. Lim Wei Juan
The interactive sessions allowed participants to engage directly with experts, reviewing real-world cases on “DCB PCI: Not Always a Bed of Roses” and discussing valuable take-home strategies for building confidence in DCB practice.
The event concluded with Dr. Tuomas Rissanen sharing his insights on “The Future of Coronary Intervention – Where Do We Go From Here?”, followed by a faculty commentary on confidently expanding DCB adoption in daily practice.
This fellowship underscored the commitment of the National Heart Institute (IJN) and SeQuent Please NEO in advancing education, training, and innovation in interventional cardiology, empowering physicians with the skills and confidence to deliver better patient outcomes.
The National Heart Institute (IJN) recently hosted an insightful CTO (Chronic Total Occlusion) PCI workshop, organized by Biotronik, featuring renowned Thai Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Wirash Kehasukcharoen as proctor, with Datuk Dr. Kumara serving as chair. The workshop brought together leading cardiologists to share expertise, refine strategies, and advance skills in the treatment of complex coronary lesions.
About Dr. Wirash Kehasukcharoen
With more than 34 years of experience in interventional cardiology, Dr. Wirash Kehasukcharoen is a trusted name in coronary intervention and PCI. He earned his MD from Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University in 1987 and has since dedicated his career to advancing cardiovascular care. Currently a Senior Consultant at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital in Thailand, Dr. Kehasukcharoen has also held esteemed roles at Bangkok Hospital and the Central Chest Institute of Thailand. His expertise spans coronary angiography, complex PCI techniques, and CTO interventions, making him a sought-after educator and mentor in the field.
Workshop Highlights
Hands-on focus on CTO PCI techniques – Participants were exposed to the latest strategies and device technologies for tackling challenging coronary blockages.
Case-based learning – Real-world cases guided by Dr. Wirash provided practical insights into antegrade, retrograde, and hybrid CTO approaches.
Interactive discussion – Under the guidance of Datuk Dr. Kumara, the workshop emphasized clinical decision-making, complication management, and procedural optimization.
Biotronik innovations – The session showcased advanced tools and devices that support operators in achieving higher success rates with improved patient outcomes.
Advancing CTO PCI in the Region
This workshop underscores Biotronik’s commitment to supporting medical education and innovation in interventional cardiology. By bringing global experts like Dr. Wirash to Malaysia, the event enhances regional expertise in managing complex coronary artery disease, ensuring patients benefit from cutting-edge therapy.
Conclusion
The CTO PCI workshop led by Dr. Wirash Kehasukcharoen and chaired by Datuk Dr. Kumara highlighted the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and technology in driving excellence in interventional cardiology. With Biotronik’s support, IJN continues to serve as a hub for knowledge exchange and innovation in cardiovascular care.
PULSE 2025, hosted by Viatris, returned in full force at Sheraton Petaling Jaya with a timely theme—“Primary Care Updates for Lifelong Cardiovascular Excellence”. This impactful medical education symposium brought together top cardiologists, endocrinologists, nephrologists, and primary care professionals from across the region to address evolving strategies in cardiovascular prevention and management.
Chaired by Dr. David Yong Tat Wai, the event emphasized Viatris’ commitment to advancing integrated, collaborative care models for cardiometabolic health in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
Presenting at the Heart of the Conversation
As a case presenter in Session 1, I had the privilege of showcasing two real-world case studies that highlighted practical approaches to risk factor management in cardiovascular disease (CVD). The discussion was enriched by expert insights from:
Dr. Tan Li Ping (Consultant Nephrologist),
Prof. Dr. Abdul Rashid (Consultant Physician), and
Dr. Rafidah Abu Bakar (Consultant Cardiologist).
We explored the interplay of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and early CKD, demonstrating how strategic intervention at the primary care level can alter the trajectory of CVD progression.
Key Sessions and Highlights
Session 1: Deterring CVD – The Power of Risk Factor Management
“Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome: The New Kid on the Block?” by Dr. Tan Li Ping
“Rethinking Statins in Prevention” by Dr. Rafidah Abu Bakar
Session 2: Strengthening the Frontlines
Dr. Jeyamalar Rajadurai and Dr. Melvin Tan stressed early detection of heart failure and continuity of care.
Dr. Goay Swee En presented a compelling case on the primary-to-tertiary care journey, highlighting the role of general practitioners in transitional care.
Session 3: The Multi-Pronged Approach
“Hearty Meals for a Healthy Heart” by Dr. Lee Ching Li connected nutrition with heart health.
“The Heart-Mind Connection” by Dr. Keith Tye reminded us that mental health is cardiovascular health.
A Platform for Progress
From medical updates to real-world cases, PULSE 2025 proved to be more than just a CME event—it was a call to action for better primary care collaboration, holistic prevention strategies, and patient-centered cardiovascular health.
The “Beyond the Pill” innovation segment by Dr. David Yong showcased how Viatris continues to go further—supporting not just medication, but education, access, and patient empowerment.
Final Thoughts
As a participant and presenter, I found PULSE 2025 to be a truly rewarding experience. The case-based discussions and interdisciplinary dialogue reinforced the importance of empowering frontline healthcare providers with both knowledge and collaborative networks.
With Dr Kevin Moses, Country Medical Lead, also my housemate during uni time!
Kudos to Viatris for organizing a well-curated program that keeps pushing the envelope of primary cardiovascular care.
In conjunction with World Heart Day 2025, Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) hosted a vibrant community event at The Curve, Mutiara Damansara, bringing together healthcare professionals, patients, families, and the public to raise awareness on cardiovascular health. (IJN World Heart Day)
Themed “Protect Your Heart, Protect Your Life”, the event highlighted the importance of prevention, early detection, and lifestyle changes in combating heart disease – Malaysia’s number one killer.
Event Highlights
Free Health Screenings: Blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and BMI checks helped participants understand their risk factors.
Interactive Talks & Workshops: IJN cardiologists and dietitians shared insights on healthy eating, exercise, and stress management for heart health.
CPR & AED Demonstrations: Hands-on training sessions empowered the public with lifesaving skills in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.
Engaging Activities: Zumba, heart-healthy cooking demos, and fun family activities encouraged active participation in a positive, community-driven environment.
Patient Sharing Sessions: Inspiring stories from heart patients underscored the importance of timely medical intervention and lifestyle adjustments.
Why It Matters
World Heart Day serves as a reminder that 80% of premature heart disease and strokes are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices. IJN’s initiative at The Curve underscores its commitment to not only treating but also educating and empowering Malaysians to take charge of their heart health.
Looking Ahead
With growing community engagement, IJN continues to lead the way in advancing cardiovascular care, prevention, and education in Malaysia. Events like World Heart Day at The Curve demonstrate that together, healthcare providers and the community can make heart health a shared responsibility.
Yeap, thats me trying to join the Zumba dance! haha
Boston Scientific IVUS Connect+ Workshop in collaboration with Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) brought together leading interventional cardiologists for a half-day of intensive learning and case-based discussions at EQ Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
Chaired by Dato’ Sri Dr Azhari Bin Rosman, the workshop highlighted the importance of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in guiding modern PCI, especially in managing complex and calcified coronary lesions. The event featured an impressive faculty line-up from IJN including Dr Hafidz Abd Hadi, Dr Abdul Ariff Shaparudin, Dr Jassie Teo, Dr Lim Wei Juan, and Dr Iskandar Mirza Amran, alongside international guest speaker Dr Amir Aziz Alkatiri from Harapan Kita Hospital, Indonesia.
Key Highlights
Calcified Lesions – Planning & Preparation: Dr Abdul Ariff Shaparudin outlined step-by-step strategies to optimize outcomes in challenging cases.
Choosing the Right Debulking Device (RA vs OA): Dr Hafidz Abd Hadi compared rotational and orbital atherectomy, providing practical insights on device selection.
Calcium Strategy: RotaCut Expert Sharing: Dr Amir Aziz Alkatiri shared international experience in managing heavily calcified lesions using hybrid strategies.
Case-Based Learning: Three real-world CHIP (Complex High-risk Indicated PCI) cases were presented, each emphasizing the role of IVUS in guiding atherectomy, debulking, and stent optimization.
Case 1: IVUS-guided RA/OA (Dr Jassie Teo)
Case 2: IVUS-guided calcified lesion PCI (Dr Lim Wei Juan)
Case 3: IVUS-guided RotaCut (Dr Iskandar Mirza Amran)
Key Takeaways
The workshop reinforced that IVUS guidance is essential in modern PCI, particularly in complex lesions where precise lesion assessment, device selection, and stent optimization determine patient outcomes. Participants left with enhanced strategies to approach CHIP cases with confidence, bridging cutting-edge technology and clinical expertise.
The Boston Scientific IVUS Connect+ with IJN once again demonstrated the value of collaborative learning in advancing interventional cardiology practice in Malaysia and beyond.
Introduction: A Heartfelt Initiative for a Healthier Tomorrow by Great Eastern Insurance
The Great Eastern Insurance Associates Forum 2025, held in the heart of Kuala Lumpur at the IJN Auditorium, was not just another corporate seminar — it was a vibrant health empowerment event. Organized by Great Eastern Life in collaboration with Great Eastern Takaful and Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), the forum focused on the theme: 🫀 “It’s Not Just a Game. It’s About Your Heart.”
With a full house of associates, guests, and medical professionals, the event underscored a powerful message — early detection and education are key to combating cardiovascular diseases, Malaysia’s No. 1 killer.
Complimentary Health Screenings and Warm Welcome by Great Eastern Insurance
The forum began early at 8:00 AM with registration, light refreshments, and free basic health screenings. Attendees took the opportunity to check their blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol levels — three critical indicators of heart health.
At 9:30 AM, the welcome note was delivered by Prof Dato’ Sri Dr. Mohamed Ezani Md. Taib, Group Chief Executive Officer of IJN, who emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration in building a healthier nation.
Getting to Know IJN: The Nation’s Heartbeat
Following the keynote, Ms. Farah Delah Suhaimi, Head of Marketing at IJN, introduced the audience to IJN’s history, mission, and milestones. She spoke passionately about IJN’s role as a Flagship Medical Tourism Hospital Finalist under Malaysia Healthcare from 2023–2025, highlighting its expertise in heart care and commitment to innovation.
Tackling the Silent Killers: Hypertension, Diabetes & Cholesterol
At 10:30 AM, the forum moved into one of its most informative segments. Dr Lim Wei Juan, a seasoned cardiologist, delivered an eye-opening session titled:
“Silent Killer of the Heart: Hypertension, Diabetes & Cholesterol”
Dr. Lim broke down how these conditions often go unnoticed but are responsible for a majority of heart-related complications in Malaysians. His key takeaway: 🔍 “Prevention starts with awareness. Know your numbers, take action early.”
Giving a Second Chance: Congenital Heart Disease
Next up at 11:20 AM, Dr. Leong Ming Chern, Deputy Head of Paediatric & Congenital Heart Disease at IJN, spoke on:
“Congenital Heart Disease: Giving Our Patients A Second Chance of Life”
His emotional yet empowering talk highlighted how early diagnosis, surgical advancements, and specialized pediatric care can save and transform lives — especially among children born with heart defects.
Life-Saving in Action: Learn CPR, Save A Life
At 11:30 AM, the energy in the auditorium shifted to a more hands-on session led by Ms. Anndrian Lazola, Clinical Coordinator at the CPR Faculty. Her engaging demonstration, titled:
“Learn CPR Save A Lives”
…equipped attendees with essential CPR techniques, empowering them to be first responders in emergency situations. Many expressed gratitude for this practical session, calling it the highlight of their day.
A Thoughtful End: Lunch, Networking, and Door Gifts
The program concluded with a delicious lunch at 12:30 PM, giving participants time to network, interact with speakers, and collect their exclusive door gift. Parking was made convenient with a flat rate of RM7 — a small touch that made a big difference.
Final Thoughts: A Forum That Left a Lasting Impact
The Great Eastern Insurance Associates Forum 2025 was more than an event — it was a call to action. Attendees left more informed, inspired, and equipped to take charge of their heart health. From critical medical insights to practical CPR training, every session was curated to make a lasting impact.
