IMU Conference 2024: A Celebratory Return of Alumni and a Convergence of Healthcare Visionaries

The IMU Conference 2024, a highly anticipated two-day non-scientific event, marked the return of IMU Alumni to the IMU University’s Bukit Jalil campus. This year’s conference served as a platform for inspiring dialogues, thought leadership, and the reinforcement of vital connections within the healthcare industry. With a strong focus on the One Health concept, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, the event saw distinguished speakers, alumni, and industry leaders come together to explore the future of healthcare.

The conference commenced with an inspiring opening speech from Dr Paul Chan, President of the Alumni Association 2023/24. He drew parallels between this year’s event and the inaugural IMU Alumni Conference in 2023, reflecting on how it had evolved to become the IMU Conference 2024. The renaming, Dr Paul explained, was driven by a spirit of inclusion, aligning the event with the expansive vision of One Health, a concept that recognises the deep interrelationship between human, animal, and environmental health.

Dr Paul fondly recalled his experience as a participant in the first conference and expressed pride in standing before the audience this year as the host. He elaborated on the conference’s key themes—Entrepreneurship & Leadership Management, Teaching & Learning, and Community Engagement—emphasizing the stimulating discussions and innovative ideas that would unfold over the next two days.

These topics, central to the conference, reflected IMU’s commitment to shaping the future of healthcare by bridging education, leadership, and community impact.

Following Dr Paul’s opening speech, YAM Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Tuanku Muhriz, Chairman of the IMU Group, delivered the Welcome Address. YAM Tunku Ali underscored the pivotal role that alumni play in driving progress and supporting the university’s mission. He spoke passionately about the power of One Health principles and the strength of the alumni community, calling for greater collaboration as we face increasingly complex healthcare and environmental challenges.

In his remarks, YAM Tunku Ali extended heartfelt gratitude to the organising committees, sponsors, partners, and industry representatives, acknowledging their crucial contributions to the success of the event. His message set an optimistic tone for the remainder of the conference, emphasizing unity and innovation as guiding forces for the future.

Throughout the conference, alumni and external experts shared their knowledge on various healthcare-related topics. Among the most notable speakers was Lee Yee Keng, Head of Healthcare at KPMG, who discussed the evolving landscape of healthcare, highlighting the growing importance of digital transformation, sustainability, and artificial intelligence in shaping future models of care. Her insights sparked thoughtful discussions about the critical intersection of technology and healthcare innovation.

Another key highlight was the forum titled Business Smarts: A University Field Guide for Emerging Healthcare Leaders, which took place on Day 1. This dynamic panel engaged participants in a thought-provoking conversation about leadership, entrepreneurship, and the challenges faced by future healthcare leaders. The symposiums that followed further explored the core topics of Entrepreneurship & Leadership Management, Teaching & Learning, and Community Engagement, offering participants valuable insights and actionable strategies.

One of the unique aspects of IMU Conference 2024 was the participation of alumni from across the globe. Through video submissions, these alumni contributed significantly to the event, adding an international dimension to the discussions. Their involvement enriched the conference and demonstrated the enduring bond shared by IMU alumni, regardless of their geographical location. We even hosted alumni participants who joined us via Zoom.

The IMU Conference 2024 also shone a spotlight on the academic achievements of its participants. Poster presentations were a major highlight, with the following winners recognized for their outstanding contributions:

1^st Place:
2nd Place:
3^rd Place:

Muhammad Faizzudin Bin Mohd Razali MMHS120
Ang Ai Lyn, Juliana ME216
Jemimah Chhoa Sheau Min DT119

For oral presentations, the competition was equally impressive, with the following winners:

1^st Place:
2nd Place:
3^rd Place:

Tajul Asni Bin Ahamad MHIA122
Ewa Choy Yee Wa PHMS120
Lee Rulin PS120

The organising committee extends its warmest congratulations to all presenters and winners for their exceptional efforts and contributions to the field.

As the conference drew to a close, Dr Paul Chan, on behalf of the Alumni Association 2023/24 and the University Advancement & Alumni Office, expressed deep appreciation to all participants, sponsors, partners, IMU management, staff, and students for their invaluable support in making the event a success. He emphasized how the conference provided an excellent platform for exchanging ideas, learning from one another, and strengthening the IMU alumni network.

Looking to the future, Dr Paul conveyed high hopes for the next conference, expressing confidence that the IMU community would continue to thrive and innovate. He eagerly anticipated welcoming alumni back to future events and building on the strong foundation of collaboration and shared purpose that the IMU Conference 2024 had fostered.

The IMU Conference 2024 was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the strength and vibrancy of the IMU alumni community. It showcased the forward-thinking leadership of the university and its commitment to tackling the most pressing healthcare challenges of our time. As the conference participants departed, they carried with them not only new knowledge and insights but also the camaraderie and shared vision that define the IMU spirit.

With the One Health concept at its core and a focus on fostering future healthcare leaders, IMU Conference 2024 stands as a milestone event in the university’s journey of growth and excellence. The stage is set for even greater achievements in the years to come.