Dear Friends and Colleagues,
On behalf of the Malaysian Association for the Study of Pain (MASP), I would like to invite you to the 8th Congress of the Association of South-East Asian Pain Societies (ASEAPS) from 11th to 14th April 2019, which the MASP is hosting at the Pullman Kuching, in the lovely state of Sarawak, Malaysia.
The theme ‘Building Collaborations In Pain Management’ highlights the importance of multidisciplinary teams of healthcare professionals working together to improve the management of acute, chronic and cancer pain. Instead of working in silos, we should be breaking barriers and maximising the expertise of different healthcare providers to achieve synergy for better patient-centered outcomes.
In keeping with the multidisciplinary membership of the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) and ASEAPS, we welcome doctors and allied health professionals from all specialties to this Congress, which will comprise lectures, discussions and debates on the latest developments and scientific breakthroughs in the field of pain medicine. The Congress will also focus on issues and challenges faced in the ASEAN region, in keeping with the ASEAPS aim to contribute towards the improvement and advancement of pain management in the region.
The Scientific Committee is planning a comprehensive Scientific Programme that will give delegates the opportunity to update yourselves with the latest in pain management that can be incorporated into your own practice. Apart from plenary lectures, topical symposia and panel discussions, there will also be interactive workshops to teach practical aspects of pain management and encourage more hands-on participation from delegates. We would also like to encourage all of you to submit an abstract for the Free Paper and/or Poster sessions; in this way, you get to be part of the Scientific Programme, share your own experience and research in your country or institution and also stand a chance to win attractive prizes.
The MASP has chosen to hold this ASEAPS congress in Sarawak, which is located on Borneo, the third largest island in the world. Sarawak is a land of beauty and contrasts, with mountains, rivers, rainforests and limestone caves as well as modern cities. We hope that you will not just join us at the conference, but also take some time out to explore the many facets of the capital city of Kuching, including getting a taste of the rich culture at the Sarawak Cultural Village, visiting the Orang Utan Sanctuary at Semenggoh, jungle trekking, relaxing on a river cruise, or, going further afield to visit the world famous Mulu Caves, other national parks and traditional villages. Whatever you choose to do, your trip is bound to be interesting and exciting.
I look forward to welcoming you to Kuching, Sarawak for the 8th ASEAPS Congress 2019!
Dr Mary Suma Cardosa
Organising Chairperson & President
Malaysian Association for the Study of Pain (MASP)