Dr Elliyyin Katiman (Chair, MAC 16):
“Good morning! Planning the 16th Malaysian Endocrine and Metabolic Society Annual Congress has been quite the journey. But seeing everything come together under the theme ‘Synergy in Endocrinology’ makes it incredibly rewarding.”
Dr Tong Chin Voon (Scientific Chair):
“Absolutely! The theme reflects what we’re trying to achieve—bringing clinicians, researchers, and trainees together to exchange ideas and strengthen endocrine practice.”
Dr Subashini Rajoo (Pre-Congress Chair):
“And the learning actually starts even before the main congress! The pre-congress workshop is designed to be highly practical, especially for trainees and clinicians who want to sharpen their diagnostic skills.”
Dr Elliyyin:
“I heard one of the most anticipated sessions is ‘Provoking the Pituitary: Dynamic Tests Decoded.’ That sounds like something every endocrinologist would find useful.”
Dr Subashini:
“Yes, definitely! Dynamic testing can sometimes feel like deciphering a puzzle. In this workshop, we’ll walk participants through various endocrine tests and highlight common pitfalls that can lead to misinterpretation.”
Dr Tong:
“That’s a fantastic idea. Dynamic tests are central to endocrinology, yet they’re often misunderstood. Understanding when a borderline cortisol result truly indicates adrenal insufficiency—or when it doesn’t—can make a huge difference in patient care.”
Dr Subashini:
“Exactly. We’re also incorporating real case discussions so participants can see how dynamic testing applies to everyday clinical scenarios. It’s meant to be interactive—more decoding together than just listening to lectures.”
Dr Tong:
“Beyond the pre-congress sessions, we also have some fascinating talks during the main congress. I’m particularly excited about the session on health effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). It’s amazing how environmental exposures can influence metabolism, fertility, and hormonal health.”
Dr Elliyyin:
“Yes, that topic really highlights how endocrinology connects with public health and environmental science.”
Dr Tong:
“And another talk that will surely spark discussion is testosterone in women. Our understanding has evolved tremendously—testosterone is no longer viewed simply as a ‘male hormone.’ It has important roles in women’s health, from sexual wellbeing to metabolic function.”
Dr Subashini:
“I suspect that session will generate a lot of questions—and maybe a few friendly debates!”
Dr Elliyyin:
“And that’s exactly what MAC is about: learning, exchanging ideas, and building collaborations. If participants leave inspired and a little more curious than when they arrived, we’ve done our job.”
Dr Tong:
“And hopefully they’ll also enjoy Kuala Lumpur’s food scene (in a healthy manner) between sessions.”
Dr Subashini:
“Scientific stimulation by day, great food by night—that’s the perfect endocrine balance!”
