KUALA TERENGGANU, 16 OCTOBER 2026 – The East Coast Pain Medicine Workshop and Chronic Pain Awareness Programme/ Family Day 2026 was successfully held on 15 and 16 October 2026 at Primula Beach Hotel, Terengganu, bringing together healthcare professionals, chronic pain patients and caregivers to strengthen knowledge, promote collaboration and raise awareness about chronic pain management.

Organised with the aim of enhancing professional knowledge and skills in pain management, the two-day programme attracted 124 participants on the first day and 118 participants on the second day. Attendees comprised medical officers, specialists, nurses, medical assistants, physiotherapists, clinical pharmacists, occupational therapists, clinical psychologists, as well as chronic pain patients and their caregivers.

Strengthening Knowledge and Skills in Pain Management

The first day, which focused on academic and professional development, featured a series of expert-led lectures and practical sessions covering various aspects of pain medicine.

The workshop was officiated by Professor Dr. Zubaidah Jamil @ Osman, President of the Malaysian Association for the Study of Pain (MASP), following the welcoming address by Dr. Wan Rohaidah Wan Ahmad, Chairman of the East Coast Pain Medicine Workshop 2026.

Among the distinguished speakers was Dr. Mary Suma Cardosa, who delivered a session entitled “Inspiring Teamwork: Patient Education Program – What Modules Are Available”, highlighting the importance of teamwork and patient education in pain management.

Other sessions addressed important clinical topics, including paediatric pain management, myofascial pain and fibromyalgia, psychological strategies for improving life with chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and the role of exercise in chronic pain management.

The programme also incorporated practical learning opportunities, including physiotherapy exercises and demonstrations, alongside a question-and-answer session to encourage interaction and knowledge exchange between participants and speakers.

A series of hands-on stations further strengthened the practical component of the workshop. Participants had the opportunity to explore knee, foot and ankle, shoulder and elbow ultrasonography, needle therapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy interventions, as well as patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) machines.

Promoting Awareness Through Patient and Family Engagement

The second day focused on patient and family engagement through the Chronic Pain Awareness Programme, providing an opportunity for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals to come together in a supportive and interactive environment.

The day began with an aerobics and chair-based exercise session themed “Bed Is Bad: Let's Get Moving!”, encouraging participants to remain physically active.

This was followed by interactive activities, including telematch games, quizzes and a colouring competition, designed to promote participation and awareness in a relaxed and engaging setting.

The opening ceremony featured welcoming remarks by Professor Dr. Zubaidah Jamil @ Osman, President of MASP, and an opening address by Dr. Saifur Rahman bin Muhammad, Director of Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah (HSNZ), Kuala Terengganu.

Educational talks continued with “Staying on the Right Track”, delivered by Professor Dr. Zubaidah Jamil @ Osman, and “Sleep Hygiene”, presented by Dr. Nor Aida Musa, Rehabilitation Physician at Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah.

A patient-sharing session was also held, providing a platform for individuals living with chronic pain to share their experiences. The session highlighted the importance of patient perspectives and greater understanding of the challenges associated with living with chronic pain.

The programme concluded with performances and a lucky draw, bringing the two-day event to a close.

Commitment Towards Better Pain Management

The East Coast Pain Medicine Workshop and Chronic Pain Awareness Programme 2026 reflects the continued commitment to improving pain management through professional education, multidisciplinary collaboration and greater public awareness.

By bringing together healthcare professionals, patients and caregivers, the programme provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, practical learning and meaningful engagement.

The initiative also reinforced the importance of a holistic approach to chronic pain management, recognising the role of healthcare professionals, patients and families in supporting better care and quality of life for individuals living with chronic pain.

The organising committee extends its appreciation to all speakers, facilitators, participants, sponsors and supporting teams whose contributions made the programme possible.

Reported by: Organising Committee
East Coast Pain Medicine Workshop and Chronic Pain Awareness Programme 2026
Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Kuala Terengganu
Submitted to: Malaysia Association for the Study of Pain (MASP)