On the evening of 10th May 2025, I had the pleasure of speaking at EMVOLUTION, an educational empagliflozin workshop hosted by Qualitas Health in collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, held at the Royale Chulan Damansara. The event, themed “Empagliflozin’s Revolutionary Management in CRM Continuum”, gathered healthcare professionals for a dynamic discussion on the evolving landscape of chronic disease management.
I was honoured to present on “Managing the ‘Tough Guys’: Patients with Co-morbidities,” where I shared practical approaches to handling complex patient profiles—particularly those with overlapping cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic conditions. As we continue to embrace newer therapies like empagliflozin, it’s clear that we’re entering a new era of patient-centric, multi-disciplinary care.
Dr. Wong Mun Hoe from Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur followed with a compelling session titled “The Silent Killer: CKD,” shining a spotlight on the silent burden of chronic kidney disease. We wrapped up with a lively panel discussion in the spirit of a “Tonight Show”, exchanging insights across specialties.
Thanks to all who attended and contributed to the rich dialogue. Events like these remind us of the importance of collaboration in advancing patient outcomes.
Shaping Asia’s Future in Cardiology: Rising Star Program Highlights Groundbreaking Coronary Intervention Cases
The Rising Star Program in Singapore continues to cement its reputation as a regional platform for clinical excellence and cross-border collaboration. At a recent highlight session chaired by Dr. Jack Tan and Dr. Lee Kwan Seung, distinguished interventional cardiologists from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines came together to share complex coronary intervention cases.
Its a team based presentation
Its my 1st time presenting as a team with other cardiologist from other countries!
Focusing on calcified lesions and bifurcation strategies, the session featured real-world examples demonstrating advanced techniques using IVUS (Intravascular Ultrasound) and RotaPro. These tools were central in optimizing outcomes, especially in challenging cases where precision and plaque modification were critical.
From Malaysia’s approach to heavily calcified left main interventions, to Vietnam’s innovative use of IVUS-guided bifurcation stenting, the diversity of clinical perspectives provided invaluable learning for attendees. Dr. Lee Kwan Seung emphasized the importance of imaging in lesion assessment, while Dr. Jack Tan highlighted how programs like Rising Star are nurturing the next generation of interventional leaders across Asia.
As the program grows, it continues to foster not just technical skill-sharing but also deeper professional ties across borders—solidifying Southeast Asia’s position at the forefront of cardiovascular innovation.
A group photo for all
Thanks Boston for organizing this event & the opportunity!
Thanks Datuk Dr Shaiful & Datuk Dr Kumara for the guidance!
On 20 April 2025, the Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), in collaboration with the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Wilayah Persekutuan Branch, hosted the much-anticipated IJNGP CV Symposium for Primary Care Physicians at the stylish Element by Westin, Kuala Lumpur.
Focused on “Updates in Management of Cardiovascular Risk Factors”, the half-day symposium drew strong attendance from general practitioners eager to enhance their clinical acumen in tackling cardiovascular disease (CVD)—Malaysia’s leading cause of morbidity and mortality.
A Power-Packed Lineup of Experts
The event featured a multidisciplinary team of speakers and panelists from IJN, with insights from seasoned consultants, clinical fellows, and frontliners in emergency medicine and primary care.
Course Director:
Datuk Dr. Kumara Guruparan (Consultant Cardiologist, IJN)
Key Speakers & Panelists:
Datuk Dr. Ahmad Khairuddin – Senior Consultant Cardiologist, IJN
Dr. Aslannif Roslan – Consultant Cardiologist, IJN
Dr. Farina Mohd Salleh – Consultant Emergency Physician, IJN
Dr. Rhuban A/L M. Sundran – Cardiologist, IJN
Dr. Lim Wei Juan – Clinical Fellow, IJN
Dr. Mohd Tawfeq Mohd Noor – Clinical Fellow, IJN
Dr. Soh Si Ling – Clinical Fellow, IJN
Dr. Rowina Lynne Murray – Clinical Fellow, IJN
Dr. Shahrul Bin Abdul Mutalib – General Practitioner, Procare Clinic
A Meaningful Impact for Frontline Providers
This symposium underscored the critical role GPs play in early identification, risk assessment, and continuity of care for cardiovascular patients. With a strong focus on practical skills and collaborative care models, attendees left empowered to apply the latest knowledge directly in their practices.
The event also highlighted IJN’s ongoing commitment to professional development, bridging gaps between tertiary care and general practice, and ultimately improving outcomes for patients nationwide.
🩺 Key Takeaways for GPs:
Start screening early—even in patients as young as their 30s
Use structured history-taking to unearth hidden CV risks
Understand the nuances between ACS and CCS
Know when to refer and how to manage post-discharge care
Advocate for patient health literacy and self-empowerment
Final Words
The IJN GP CV Symposium 2025 wasn’t just a meeting—it was a call to elevate cardiovascular care through proactive, patient-centered general practice. With an impressive lineup of experts and a clinically rich agenda, it set a new benchmark for CME in cardiovascular health.
Thanks again to IJN & AZ for the opportunity for sharing!
A Night of Insight and Innovationchaired byDatuk Dr Kumara
In a thought-provoking evening at the Bungalow 37, IJN cardiologists gathered for an exclusive strategy dinner talk focused on the evolving role of Drug-Coated Balloon (DCB) therapy in modern cardiology. The event was chaired by Datuk Dr Kumara, a distinguished consultant cardiologist at IJN, who led the discussions with precision, clarity, and a wealth of clinical experience.
Setting the Stage: Why DCB Matters
Datuk Dr Kumara opened the evening by emphasizing the increasing relevance of DCBs, particularly in the context of coronary artery disease (CAD) and in-stent restenosis (ISR). With a growing body of evidence supporting the efficacy of DCBs in select patient populations, especially those with small vessel disease and high bleeding risk, the technology is gaining momentum as a viable alternative to drug-eluting stents (DES).
“DCB is not just a device—it’s a strategy,” Dr Kumara remarked, highlighting the importance of lesion preparation and patient selection in achieving optimal outcomes.
Key Themes and Clinical PearlsThe discussion centered around several key themes:
1. Patient Selection and Lesion Preparation
Participants agreed that proper lesion preparation is the cornerstone of successful DCB outcomes. Dr Kumara reinforced the importance of achieving optimal vessel compliance, with imaging guidance (IVUS or OCT) playing a critical role in assessment.
2. DCB in Real-World Practice
Case presentations by Dr Lim Wei Juan & Dr Lim Yuen Han highlighted the practical application of DCBs in complex scenarios such as:
Small vessel disease
Diabetic patients
Bifurcation lesions
ISR with previous DES failures
Several attendees shared their experience with newer-generation DCBs showing favorable long-term patency rates and reduced need for repeat revascularization.
3. Emerging Data and Guidelines
The latest updates from ESC 2024 and APSC recommendations were discussed, which increasingly recognize DCBs as a Class I recommendation in ISR and a Class IIa option in de novo lesions in certain subsets.
Datuk Dr Kumara also touched on upcoming trials, including data from FIRE, BASKET-SMALL 2, and DEBUT studies, supporting broader adoption of DCB-first strategies.
Interactive Case Discussions and Q&A
The second half of the evening featured case-based discussions, allowing attendees to debate real-world challenges and strategies. Datuk Dr Kumara’s practical approach—blending evidence with patient-specific considerations—offered attendees invaluable clinical pearls to bring back to their practice.
Takeaways and Future Direction
The dinner talk concluded with a clear message: DCB therapy is no longer niche—it’s now central to contemporary PCI strategy, especially when used thoughtfully with the right tools, preparation, and patient selection.
In the ever-evolving field of interventional cardiology, few names command the global respect that Dr Koshi Matsuo does. Known for his mastery in chronic total occlusion (CTO) interventions, Dr Matsuo brought his legendary precision and teaching philosophy to our recent CTO workshop — a hands-on, high-impact learning experience that left everyone inspired and elevated.
A Rare Opportunity to Learn from a Japanese Maestro
Hailing from Japan, a country renowned for its meticulous and innovative approach to CTO PCI, Dr Koshi Matsuo is more than just an expert — he’s a sensei, a teacher who imparts not just skills but wisdom. His calm demeanor, structured techniques, and deep understanding of complex anatomy were on full display throughout the workshop.
3 participants from UKM, Dr Kogulakrishnan from Columbia Asia Klang and Dr Dhani from Hospital Kuantan were treated to a blend of theory, live case demonstrations, and case-based discussions. Dr Matsuo’s step-by-step explanations made even the most daunting lesions approachable.
Key Highlights from the Workshop
Live CTO PCI Demonstrations: Dr Matsuo performed live cases showcasing both antegrade and retrograde approaches. His mastery of wire techniques, microcatheter handling, and dissection-reentry strategies provided practical insights that textbooks often miss.
The Japanese Way: Emphasis was placed on wire escalation protocols, the importance of tactile feedback, and micro-movements — hallmarks of the Japanese technique that can dramatically improve procedural success and safety.
More Than Just Techniques: A Philosophy of Patience and Precision
What set this workshop apart wasn’t just the technical content — it was Dr Matsuo’s emphasis on the mindset behind a successful CTO intervention. He reminded everyone that CTO PCI is not a race, but a discipline of patience, planning, and persistent learning.
Managed to do 2 CTO cases with sensei, 1st case was an adhoc CTO RCA, successful crossed with Gaia 2nd, full DCB from ostial to distal RCA. 2nd case was CTO proximal LAD with bridging collaterals, crossed with parallel wiring technique using Sasuke dual lumen catheter, also DCB!
Final Thoughts
This workshop was a rare privilege and a reminder of the importance of lifelong learning in interventional cardiology. We thank Dr Koshi Matsuo for sharing his time, expertise, and passion with us.
Thank you Boston Scientific for bringing Dr Koshi Matsuo from Japan to IJN!
The Hong Kong Observership Program at Tuen Mun Hospital offers a unique opportunity for medical professionals to expand their knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and explore the diverse healthcare landscape of Hong Kong. Located in the heart of one of Asia’s most vibrant cities, Tuen Mun Hospital provides a world-class learning environment, offering specialized insights across a variety of medical disciplines.
Tuen Mun Hospital with Dr Hyeon Jeong Kim from Korea!
The other 2 participants are Dr Hyeon Jeong Kim from Busan Veterans Hospital, Korea and Dr Wu Pei-Hsi from Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan. Both are their first time at Tuen Mun Hospital & Hong Kong!
What is the Hong Kong Observership Program?
An observership allows doctors to observe medical procedures, attend clinical rounds, and learn from some of the most experienced professionals in the field. The program is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Hong Kong’s medical practices, healthcare delivery, and patient care protocols at Tuen Mun Hospital.
Dr Eric Eeckhout shared a lot of interesting cases with us which he did previously at Swiss!
Why Choose Tuen Mun Hospital?
Tuen Mun Hospital, one of Hong Kong’s largest and most advanced hospitals, is known for its cutting-edge medical technology and innovative treatments. The hospital has a diverse range of specialties, including cardiology, surgery, pediatrics, and emergency medicine. By participating in the observership program, you’ll gain exposure to these specialties and learn from the best in the industry.
The hospital’s commitment to medical education and research ensures that participants have access to a wealth of resources, including experienced mentors, state-of-the-art facilities, and the opportunity to interact with professionals from various healthcare backgrounds.
Saw PanoVision which incorporated IVUS & OCT into a single system, meaning you take a shot and can see OCT & IVUS images together! From China!
Seafood lunch at Hot Tin Garden Restaurant at Tuen Mun! Met with Dr Chow Han Bing, Malaysia interventional cardiology fellow from Sarawak Heart Center doing his fellowship there!
What Can You Expect from the Program?
As an observer, you will have the chance to:
Participate in daily clinical rounds with healthcare teams.
Observe complex angioplasty or structural heart diseases procedures such as TAVI.
Attend seminars and lectures on relevant cardiology topics.
Gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare system in Hong Kong.
Build connections with medical professionals and peers from around the world.
The observership experience is invaluable for medical professionals who wish to enhance their clinical skills, broaden their perspectives, and build a global network.
With Dr Lam Ho & Dr Eric Eeckhout!
Conclusion
The Hong Kong Observership Program at Tuen Mun Hospital is a fantastic opportunity for healthcare professionals looking to expand their expertise in an international setting. Whether you’re looking to observe advanced medical practices, gain experience in specialized fields, or simply immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s dynamic healthcare system, this program provides the ideal platform for your growth. Take the next step in your medical career and apply today for a life-changing experience at Tuen Mun Hospital!
Managed to make a 1 day tour to Macau, took their TurboJet ferry to Macau from Hong Kong, 1 hour journey & fast custom clearance!
And took their bus back from Macau to Hong Kong as I wanted to experience their Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge!
Facts on the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge (HZMB)
Overview: The longest sea-crossing bridge in the world, connecting Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macau.
Total Length: 55 km (34 miles), including bridges, tunnels, and artificial islands.
Construction Period: 2009 – 2018 (opened on October 23, 2018).
Cost: Approximately US$18.8 billion (¥127 billion yuan).
Structure:
Main Bridge: 29.6 km long.
Undersea Tunnel: 6.7 km, built to allow ships to pass.
Artificial Islands: Two man-made islands near the tunnel.
Purpose: Improve connectivity between the Greater Bay Area cities.
Travel Time Reduction:
Hong Kong to Zhuhai/Macau: Cut from 4 hours to about 45 minutes.
Materials Used:
400,000 tonnes of steel (60x the Eiffel Tower).
Traffic Flow:
Right-hand drive in Hong Kong & Macau.
Left-hand drive in Zhuhai (China Mainland).
Special road design for the transition.
Usage:
Designed for cars, buses, and trucks (no pedestrians or bicycles).
Toll System:
Electronic toll collection, different fees for vehicles.
Challenges:
Delays, budget overruns, worker safety concerns.
Future Plans:
Strengthen economic ties in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area.
The HKStentConference has established itself as a premier cardiology event, bringing together interventional cardiologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals to discuss the latest advancements in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A key highlight of the HKStent conference is the in-depth discussion on PCI complications, a critical area that impacts patient outcomes and clinical decision-making.
Glad to be able to join this year HKStent at Hong Kong Conference & Convention Center!
Day 1: Managed to try their local dim sum at one of the famous restaurant at Hong Kong! Followed by milk tea at 茶餐厅 (Local Tea Restaurant).
Followed by dinner at SKYE Roofbar & Brasserie with Dato Dr Azmee, Datuk Dr Kumara, Dato Dr Suneta & Dr Koh Hui Bing from IJN with Dr Choo Gim Hooi from CVSKL!
Understanding PCI Complications
PCI has revolutionized the treatment of coronary artery disease, yet complications remain a significant concern. The HKStent Conference provides a platform to examine these challenges through case studies, expert panel discussions, and the latest research findings.
With Gary Yap (Director of Marketing) & Ken Cheong (Area Business Manager) from Biotronik!
Day 2 is the conference day with learning on cardiogenic shock with Impella hands on workshop!
Great case sharing by Drs around the world on their best complication cases!
Dinner at Yung Kee restaurant with post dinner walk at Lan Kwai Fong street.
Some of the major PCI complications explored at the conference include:
Stent Thrombosis: Despite advancements in drug-eluting stents and antiplatelet therapy, stent thrombosis remains a life-threatening complication. Experts at HKStent discuss risk stratification, optimal medication strategies, and emerging technologies to mitigate this risk.
Coronary Perforation: A rare but serious complication, coronary perforation can lead to pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. Attendees gain insights into preventive techniques, early detection strategies, and effective bailout procedures.
No-Reflow Phenomenon: The failure to restore adequate coronary blood flow post-PCI presents a major clinical challenge. The conference highlights cutting-edge approaches, including pharmacological and mechanical interventions, to manage and prevent this issue.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Contrast-induced nephropathy remains a concern in PCI, particularly for high-risk patients. HKStent sessions delve into strategies for contrast minimization, hydration protocols, and novel biomarkers for early detection of AKI.
Glad to share a case & went to hands on model on CTO wires & wiring techniques!
Key Takeaways and Future Directions
The HKStent Conference not only educates attendees on managing PCI complications but also fosters discussions on future innovations. Emerging trends such as bioresorbable scaffolds, intravascular imaging, and artificial intelligence-driven decision-making are explored as potential solutions to minimize complications and enhance patient safety.
As PCI continues to evolve, HKStent serves as an essential forum for knowledge exchange and collaboration. The insights gained from this conference help shape clinical practice, ensuring better outcomes for patients undergoing interventional cardiology procedures.
