Empowering Heart Health – IJN PharmaVia Symposium with Viatris in Johor Bahru

omegakimia@yahoo.com
Posted in Drug Talk

On 16th August 2025, I had the privilege of speaking at the IJN PharmaVia Healthy Conversations Symposium – Southern Circuit, proudly held at the Renaissance Hotel Johor Bahru and broadcasted live to over 200 virtual attendees via Zoom.

IJN PharmaVia

This insightful symposium, organized in collaboration with Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), IJN First Pharmacy, and Viatris, brought together over 60 healthcare professionals on-site to engage in meaningful dialogue around cardiovascular and metabolic health challenges.

As a featured speaker, I delivered a session titled:

🔬 Know the SWEET Spot for the Heart

In this talk, I discussed the intricate link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease, exploring strategies to optimize heart health in patients with metabolic disorders. Prevention, patient education, and multi-disciplinary collaboration were key themes.

🔎 Symposium Highlights:

  • Dr. Afif Ashari opened the forum with a talk on the growing burden of cardiovascular disease.
  • Dr. Jessie Teo Yeh Lin shared insights into diabetic neuropathy pain management.
  • Dr. Lee Wei Liang tackled the challenge of managing blood pressure fluctuations.
  • Dr. Low Ming Yoong addressed hypercholesterolemia in clinical practice.
  • RPh. Lim En Ni emphasized pharmacist-patient communication for heart health.

The event also featured two dynamic forum discussions moderated by leading experts, providing both physician and pharmacist perspectives on patient care.

📈 Why This Matters:

Events like IJN PharmaVia are essential platforms for knowledge sharing, interdisciplinary collaboration, and empowering pharmacists and healthcare professionals to make informed decisions for better patient outcomes.

As we face rising rates of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, forums like this play a critical role in strengthening Malaysia’s healthcare ecosystem—both in the clinic and the community.

💬 Thank you to all participants, both in-person and virtual, for making this symposium a resounding success. Let’s continue advancing heart health—together.

The real slim shady!

Glad to be back to Johor Bahru, my hometown for this health talk with my IJN colleagues! Hope more to come soon in future!

Mastering CTO PCI: A Day of Three RCA Cases with Dr Lee Hsin Fu at IJN

omegakimia@yahoo.com
Posted in Workshop

Datuk Dr Kumara, Consultant Cardiologist from National Heart Institute (IJN), Malaysia recently hosted a dedicated CTO workshop led by renowned interventional cardiologist Dr Lee Hsin Fu from Taiwan, showcasing real-time expertise, strategy refinement, and advanced techniques in chronic total occlusion (CTO) PCI.

This full-day educational event focused on three complex RCA (right coronary artery) CTO cases, attracting fellows, cardiologists, and interventionists eager to sharpen their skills in tackling one of interventional cardiology’s toughest challenges.

Case 1: Reverse CART Success

The first live case demonstrated the effectiveness of the reverse Controlled Antegrade and Retrograde Tracking (reverse CART) technique. Meticulous planning and precision led to successful recanalization of the RCA CTO, highlighting the importance of controlled subintimal dissection and re-entry.

Case 2: From Gaia 3rd to Retrograde Knuckle Wiring

This challenging second case began with antegrade wiring using a Gaia 3rd, which navigated to the right ventricular (RV) branch. The team then switched to a Sasuke microcatheter, but antegrade attempts failed to penetrate the hard mid-RCA CTO cap.
A direct retrograde approach was attempted but resulted in a vessel perforation. Undeterred, Dr Lee Hsin Fu adapted by employing a retrograde knuckle wire technique, followed by antegrade re-entry and reverse CART, ultimately achieving procedural success.

This case illustrated the importance of flexibility, technique mastery, and managing complications in complex CTO PCI.

Case 3: Septal Surfing to Success

In the final case, only one visible apical epicardial collateral was present — but it was not suitable for access. Despite initial failed attempts through three different selective septal branches, the team succeeded using a septal surfing technique, demonstrating creative retrograde channel navigation when conventional access options are limited.

Hands-On Learning with a Regional CTO Master

Dr Lee Hsin Fu’s live case commentary, troubleshooting insights, and dynamic teaching style offered participants valuable real-world pearls — from equipment selection to escalation strategy and bailout options. Each case reinforced different facets of contemporary CTO intervention, making it a high-impact workshop for all attendees.

Dr Lee Hsin Fu

Conclusion: IJN’s Commitment to Complex PCI Education

The CTO workshop at IJN with Dr Lee Hsin Fu reaffirmed the institute’s role as a regional leader in complex coronary interventions and advanced training. With growing demand for CTO PCI, such hands-on, case-based teaching is essential to elevate operator confidence and improve patient outcomes.

Jardiance Dinner Talk at Dancing Fish, Bangsar – An Engaging Evening with KKM Doctors

omegakimia@yahoo.com
Posted in Drug Talk

The recent Jardiance dinner talk at Dancing Fish, Bangsar Shopping Centre was an enriching evening filled with engaging discussions, excellent food, and meaningful professional connections. Hosted for KKM doctors, the event spotlighted the evolving role of SGLT2 inhibitors, particularly Jardiance (empagliflozin), in managing heart failure and type 2 diabetes.

Dancing Fish, Bangsar

Evidence-Based Updates in Cardiometabolic Care

The highlight of the evening was a concise yet impactful clinical talk by an expert speaker, who shared the latest real-world data and trial evidence supporting the use of Jardiance across a spectrum of cardiometabolic conditions. From reduced hospitalizations in heart failure to renal protection in diabetic patients, the presentation underscored Jardiance’s expanding therapeutic role, well-aligned with current KKM guidelines and international best practices. (Dancing Fish, Bangsar)

Appreciation to Healthcare Heroes

The evening was also a celebration of the commitment and resilience of KKM frontline clinicians, who continue to play a crucial role in delivering quality patient care. It was a rare chance to unwind, network, and exchange experiences beyond hospital walls.

Dining Experience at Dancing Fish

Set against the elegant backdrop of Dancing Fish, Bangsar restaurant, attendees enjoyed a sumptuous spread of authentic Indo-Malay cuisine. The carefully curated menu and warm ambience made for an unforgettable dinner experience, perfectly complementing the professional content of the evening.

Conclusion

As the night drew to a close, the event left a lasting impression — not just of Jardiance’s clinical value, but also of the power of shared learning, collaboration, and a great meal. We thank all KKM doctors for their participation and dedication, and look forward to more knowledge-sharing events in the near future.

Basic TAVI Workshop at Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok: Advancing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

omegakimia@yahoo.com
Posted in Slider, Workshop

The Basic TAVI Workshop held at Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand, was a landmark educational event that brought together emerging cardiovascular specialists across ASEAN to deepen their understanding and technical proficiency in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI). The workshop was expertly chaired by Dr. Nattawut, a renowned Thai interventional cardiologist and educator in structural heart interventions.

Siriraj Hospital

2 days 1 night at Millenium Hilton Hotel Bangkok.

World-Class Training in a Historic Institution

Siriraj Hospital, Thailand’s oldest and most prestigious teaching hospital, provided an excellent environment for hands-on learning. With its legacy of clinical excellence and cutting-edge facilities, the hospital hosted young cardiologists and trainees eager to refine their skills in the evolving field of structural heart disease.

Comprehensive Curriculum: From Basics to Bedside

The Basic TAVI Workshop focused on a structured, practical curriculum that included:

  • Pathophysiology and Patient Selection for severe aortic stenosis
  • CT Planning and Valve Sizing
  • Device Types and Access Routes
  • Step-by-Step TAVI Procedure
  • Complication Management
  • Live Case Demonstrations and simulation-based training

Participants had the opportunity to observe real-time transcatheter valve deployment and interact directly with experienced faculty members during debriefing sessions.

Mentorship by Dr. Nattawut and Structural Heart Experts

Dr. Nattawut’s leadership was pivotal in creating an engaging, learner-centered environment. His clear teaching style, rich procedural experience, and commitment to nurturing regional talent made the workshop especially impactful.

His message was clear: “TAVI is no longer the future—it’s the present. Mastering the basics ensures safer outcomes and stronger collaboration across ASEAN.”

Bangkok Hospitality Meets High-Tech Learning

The charm of Bangkok added a unique flavor to the event. From authentic Thai cuisine to riverside evening walks near the Chao Phraya River, participants enjoyed a balance of professional growth and cultural enrichment.

With Dr Nattawut & Dr Narathip from Siriraj Hospital Bankok and 2 Vietnam consultant cardiologists, 1 Taipei Consultant Cardiologist standing beside me! 2 medical student from UM on right side (Black scrubs)

Conclusion

The Basic TAVI Workshop at Siriraj Hospital, chaired by Dr. Nattawut, stands as a model for how focused, regional training can elevate cardiovascular care across borders. As TAVI becomes increasingly accessible throughout Southeast Asia, foundational workshops like this ensure that quality and safety remain at the core of its expansion.

Lunch at IconSiam Bangkok.

AFCC 2025 in Penang: A Heartfelt Reunion of Knowledge, Friendships & Flavours

omegakimia@yahoo.com
Posted in Conference, Slider
AFCC 2025

The ASEAN Federation of Cardiology Congress AFCC 2025 held in Penang, Malaysia was nothing short of extraordinary — a beautiful blend of cutting-edge cardiovascular science, warm friendships, and irresistible local cuisine. (AFCC 2025)

With Dato Dr Amin Ariff, Senior Consultant Cardiologist, Datuk Dr Shaiful Azmi Yahaya, CCO IJN, Dr David Yong Consultant Cardiologist from Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur!

Held at the heart of this vibrant island, AFCC 2025 attracted leading cardiologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across the ASEAN region and beyond. The conference featured world-class lectures, engaging panel discussions, and insightful workshops, reinforcing AFCC’s reputation as the premier cardiovascular event in Southeast Asia.

Strengthening Bonds and Building Networks

Beyond the lectures, AFCC 2025 was a wonderful reunion of old friends and colleagues. Whether reconnecting during sessions or over coffee breaks, the atmosphere was filled with camaraderie, laughter, and shared passion for improving heart health. The spirit of regional collaboration was palpable — a reminder that medicine is not just science, but also community.

Thanks to Norvatis for Thursday dinner and Novo Nordisk for evening tea!

Thanks to Servier – A Valued Partner

A heartfelt thank you to Servier for their generous sponsorship and continued commitment to cardiovascular education and patient care. Their support made this congress more impactful and allowed participants to access high-quality content and experiences. Stayed at Iconic Marjorie Hotel, Penang, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel for 3 nights!

Great catchup with ex-HSAJB friends, Dr Neerusha echocardiologist, Dr Ng Wee Pang & Dr Kenneth future EP, Dr Hazureen from cardio HSAJB!

Honored to share 2 e-poster from Dr Naemah from UiTM & Dr Azlan Shah Atan from IJN!

Penang – A Feast for the Heart and the Senses

Of course, no event in Penang is complete without its legendary street food. From char koay teow to Penang laksa and cendol, delegates savoured the island’s rich culinary heritage in between sessions. The mix of tradition, flavour, and hospitality truly made AFCC 2025 a unique cultural and scientific experience.

Looking Ahead

As AFCC 2025 comes to a close, we leave with full minds, fuller hearts, and perhaps slightly fuller stomachs too! The friendships rekindled, knowledge gained, and memories made will carry us forward in our mission to deliver better cardiovascular care across ASEAN.

Great catchup with friends at Dr Lee Tjen Jhung house at Penang!

Global Heart Failure Experts Lead Boehringer Ingelheim Workshop

omegakimia@yahoo.com
Posted in Workshop

Boehringer Ingelheim (BI), a global leader in cardiovascular innovation, hosted a prestigious Heart Failure Workshop in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, bringing together leading cardiologists, medical practitioners, and healthcare professionals to tackle the growing heart failure burden in the region.

The workshop featured internationally renowned heart failure specialists, including:

  • Professor Piotr Ponikowski (Poland), co-chair of the 2021 ESC Heart Failure Guidelines and a leading global authority on the pathophysiology and treatment of heart failure.
  • Professor John Atherton (Brisbane, Australia), Director of Cardiology at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and a prominent figure in heart failure research and policy.
  • Professor David Sim (Singapore), Senior Consultant Cardiologist at National Heart Centre Singapore and a regional leader in heart failure and advanced cardiac therapies.

Their participation underscored the global collaboration needed to address heart failure, especially in fast-growing healthcare environments like Vietnam.

Key Highlights of the Workshop:

  • Evidence-Based Updates: Professors Ponikowski, Atherton, and Sim provided insightful updates on heart failure diagnosis, pharmacological advancements, and the integration of the latest ESC and ACC guidelines into everyday clinical practice.
  • Focus on SGLT2 Inhibitors: Cutting-edge discussions focused on the clinical value of SGLT2 inhibitors such as empagliflozin in both HFrEF and HFpEF, supported by recent landmark trials.
  • Case-Based Learning: Real-world patient cases from both Vietnam and international settings were analyzed to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
  • Multidisciplinary Exchange: Participants engaged in panel discussions addressing treatment barriers, healthcare infrastructure gaps, and strategies to optimize outcomes in heart failure patients across Southeast Asia.

Strengthening Vietnam’s Cardiovascular Landscape

This workshop is part of Boehringer Ingelheim’s broader effort to empower local healthcare professionals through continuous medical education, with the ultimate goal of improving lives for patients with chronic cardiovascular conditions.

With consultant cardiologist from Singapore, Dr Jeremy Chai from National Heart Center Singapore, Dr Nithin from Woodlands Hospital & Dr Chan Po Fun from Mount Elizabeth Hospital Singapore!

Consultant Cardiologist from Malaysia: Dr Beni Isman Bin Rusani from KPJ Damansara Specialist Hospital 2, Dr Mohd Ridzuan Bin Mohd Said from IIUM & Dr Sharimila Shanmugam from IJN!

Boehringer Ingelheim

About Boehringer Ingelheim

Boehringer Ingelheim is a research-driven pharmaceutical company with a strong focus on cardiovascular, metabolic, and respiratory diseases. Through innovation and partnership, BI is committed to advancing human health across the globe.

Quick Short Tour at Ho Chi Minh Vietnam

Tried Halal@Saigon the night before departure!

Stayed at VinPearl Landmark 81 Hotel, the tallest building in Vietnam! Even taller than Petronas Twin Tower!! Dining in the sky! My room was at Level 59, breakfast at level 66!

Glad to be back in Vietnam HCM after almost 15 years!

Second tallest building in SouthEast Asia!

Menarini GP Symposium 2025: Advancing Primary Care with Practical Clinical Insights in Johor Bahru

omegakimia@yahoo.com
Posted in Drug Talk

The Menarini GP Symposium 2025, held on 29th June 2025 at Amari Hotel, Johor Bahru, brought together a diverse panel of medical experts and general practitioners for a full-day event centred on practical, evidence-based updates relevant to daily clinical practice. Organized by A. Menarini Singapore Pte Ltd, the symposium aimed to empower front-line clinicians with the latest knowledge in multi-disciplinary patient care.

Menarini GP Symposium

The event opened with welcoming remarks by Dr. Tan Zi Han, Chairman of MMA Johor Branch, setting the tone for a day filled with interactive learning and collaboration.

I had the honour of joining as one of the invited speakers at Menarini GP Symposium and presented during the morning plenary alongside Dr. Winton Chong, Consultant ENT Specialist from Hospital Sultan Ismail. My talk focused on cardiovascular safety of COX-2 inhibitors, with an emphasis on bridging secondary and primary care seamlessly for improved patient outcomes.

The rest of the programme featured a series of impactful talks covering a broad range of specialties, including:

  • Allergic Rhinitis and ENT Updates by Dr. Winton Chong
  • Wound Healing and Scar Management by Dr. Lee Chin Yen and Dr. Angeline Tay
  • Cognitive Decline in the Elderly by Dr. Ng Chai Chen
  • Asthma and COPD Treatment Updates by Dr. Ng Khai Lip and Dr. Lim Jin Lee
  • Musculoskeletal Pain and NSAID Safety by Dr. Teoh Tek Jiunn
  • Atopic Dermatitis and Oxidative Stress by Dr. Sam Chian Hoon
  • Wound Management Strategies by Dr. Christopher Hanjian Sheng

This symposium served not only as a platform for scientific exchange but also as a meaningful opportunity for professional connection. It was a personal highlight to reconnect with many old friends and colleagues from Johor Bahru—many of whom I had not seen in years. There was a real sense of camaraderie and shared purpose throughout the day.

As a cardiologist from Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), I was grateful for the chance to contribute and learn from others. The engagement from the GP community was exceptional, and their dedication to ongoing learning is truly commendable.

The event concluded with group photos, networking over refreshments, and a renewed sense of shared commitment to advancing patient care.

A heartfelt thank you to Menarini for organizing such a well-curated symposium and for supporting continued medical education in Malaysia. I look forward to more collaborations in the future.