Dr Nur Shasa Ain Abdul Aziz, Global Ambasador for Malaysia
15th Asia Pacific Symposium on Cochlear Implants and Related Sciences (APSCI) 2025, held in Kuala Lumpur in November, marked a proud milestone for Malaysia as the Asia Pacific cochlear implant community gathered on our shores for the first time.
The symposium was organised by a committed Malaysian team of ENT surgeons, audiologists and speech-language therapists, reflecting strong national collaboration and enthusiasm. Across the four days, the atmosphere was vibrant, welcoming and filled with genuine regional solidarity.
Although APSCI has traditionally been surgeon-led, the 2025 programme provided meaningful visibility and academic space for audiology and speech language therapy. Malaysian audiologists delivered oral presentations, poster sessions, symposiums and participated in forums alongside international faculty. For many, it was a moment of professional pride whereby local audiologists were able to stand on the same stage as renowned global experts, contributing to conversations that shape the future of cochlear implantation in the Asia Pacific. It was a clear sign that our region values the full continuum of care, from surgery to long-term rehabilitation.
The Malaysian contributions highlighted progress in newborn hearing screening, cochlear implant outcomes, the integration of emerging technologies and family-centred approaches. These presentations showcased steady advancement rather than perfection, offering honest reflections on evolving practices and the collective effort to strengthen hearing care. Discussions also acknowledged that while Malaysia still has much to develop, the trajectory is positive and supported by dedicated professionals nationwide.
Cochlear implant outcome sessions were among the most engaging, featuring regional comparisons of speech perception development, usage patterns, early activation and the impact of family engagement. These insights provided valuable benchmarks for Malaysian clinicians seeking to enhance their own rehabilitation pathways.
Vestibular related presentations added further depth. As Malaysia continues to expand assessment capabilities within CI services, learning directly from centres with mature vestibular frameworks helped clarify future directions for service enhancement.
The exhibition hall played a key role in professional learning as well. With multiple implant companies and technology partners present, clinicians had the opportunity to explore diverse processors, software platforms and connectivity, features of which extend beyond the devices commonly used in Malaysian clinics and hospitals.
A memorable highlight was the opening ceremony’s cultural performance, which warmly showcased Malaysia’s heritage and captivated international delegates.
APSCI 2025 ultimately strengthened regional collaboration and renewed collective motivation. Under the theme 'Harmonising Horizons: Hearing for All', the symposium reinforced the shared commitment to advancing hearing care for every individual across the region.
