Sabah reinforced its growing reputation as a destination for high-value medical congresses as more than 360 doctors from Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia and overseas gathered for RA Asia 2026, held in conjunction with the 1st ASEAN Conference of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (RA Asia POCUS 2026).
Jointly organised by the Malaysian Society of Regional Anaesthesia (MySORA), the Society of Critical and Emergency Sonography Malaysia (SUCCES), and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), the conference combined scientific presentations with practical clinical training, bringing together healthcare professionals to strengthen expertise in regional anaesthesia and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS).
The programme featured hands-on workshops conducted at Hospital Queen Elizabeth, Hospital Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Hospital Likas, where delegates trained directly in operating theatres and emergency departments under the guidance of 16 international specialists and 48 Malaysian faculty members.
Point-of-care ultrasound has become an increasingly valuable tool in emergency and critical care, enabling clinicians to perform rapid bedside assessments that support faster diagnosis and treatment decisions without relying solely on conventional imaging pathways.
Point-of-care ultrasound and targeted regional anaesthesia are transforming the way frontline healthcare professionals manage acute trauma and emergency cases. By bringing world-class expertise and faculty directly to Sabah’s public hospitals, this initiative provides our medical workforce with the opportunity to develop high-precision clinical skills through practical, real-world training environments where these capabilities can make the greatest impact. ~ Datuk Dr. Mahathar Abd Wahab, Director General of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia
Strengthening Sabah’s Position for Medical Business Events
Supported by the Sabah Convention Bureau (SCB), RA Asia POCUS 2026 highlighted Sabah’s capability to host specialised international medical meetings that create lasting value beyond delegate arrivals.
Medical congresses serve as important platforms for professional education, scientific collaboration and knowledge transfer, while generating economic benefits for the destination through accommodation, hospitality, transportation and related tourism activities.
Sabah Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer Noredah Othman said specialised medical meetings contribute long-term benefits to the state’s healthcare ecosystem and business events industry.
Specialised medical conferences create a legacy that extends well beyond delegate arrivals and tourism spending. They bring together global expertise, encourage innovation, and create valuable opportunities for our healthcare professionals, academic institutions, local businesses, and communities. More importantly, they demonstrate how business events can generate lasting economic and social value for Sabah.
Conference like RA Asia 2026 strengthen Kota Kinabalu’s position as a regional hub for medical advancement by connecting global experts with local clinicians while giving visiting delegates the opportunity to experience Sabah’s renowned hospitality, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. ~ Noredah Othman, Chief Executive Officer of the Sabah Convention Bureau
A Legacy Beyond the Conference
Beyond the three-day programme, RA Asia POCUS 2026 leaves behind a legacy of enhanced clinical capability and stronger regional collaboration. Healthcare professionals returned to hospitals, emergency departments and operating theatres across Southeast Asia equipped with updated knowledge and practical bedside skills that can improve patient care in critical situations.
For Sabah, the conference also demonstrated the state’s growing appeal as a destination for specialised international medical meetings, where business events not only stimulate the visitor economy but also contribute to professional development, healthcare advancement and long-term knowledge exchange.