Register
Register

SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMME

8.00 - 8.25 am

CLINICAL

Ballroom 1 & 2

EARLY CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Gambir 1

LABORATORY

Gambir 3

NURSING AND ALLIED HEALTH

Lada 2 & 3

7.00 - 8.00 am

Registration

EDUCATION SESSION 1

Acute Myeloid Leukaemia

Decoding AML: Bridging Genomics and Clinical Practice

Moderator: Dr Ong Tee Chuan

Interpreting the Trephine:

Post-Therapy and Granulomatous Challenges

Moderator: Dr Thatcheiany Kumariah

Nursing and Allied Health
Education Session 1

Moderator: SN Selvemalini Muruvin

8.00 - 8.25 am

Targeting the Genome: Precision Medicine Approaches in AML

Dr Haris Fadzillah

Benign and Reactive Histological Changes in BMT

Prof Dr Noraidah Masir

Safe Chemotherapy Management: Defining Nursing and Pharmacist Roles from Verification to Delivery

Miss Teh Hui Han

8.25 - 8.50 am

From ‘7+3’ to Smart Drugs: The Therapeutic Revolution in AML

Prof Dr Ng Soo Chin

Bone Marrow Trephine Biopsy Assessment After Chemotherapy

Prof Dr Noraidah Masir

Overview of Haematological Malignancies: A Nursing Perspective

Puan Azizan binti Mohd Isa

8.50 - 9.15 am

Minimal Residual Disease and AML Transplantation: The MRD – Guided Era

Prof Dr Koh Liang Piu

Diagnostic challenges in Large B cell lymphoma

Prof Dr Noraidah Masir

Preventing Deconditioning and Promoting Functional Recovery in Haematology Patients: Practical Strategies for Nurses

Dr Tan Jin Hui

9.15 - 9.30 am

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

9.30 - 10.00 am

Industry Showcase / Poster walk

10.00 - 10.30 am

Opening Ceremony

10.30 - 11.15 am

Plenary Lecture

The Future of CML Care: Molecular Precision and New Therapeutic Targets

Professor Delphine Rea
Physician in the Department of Hematology, Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France

Chairperson: Dr Alan Teh

EDUCATION SESSION 2

Lymphoma
Modern Management of Hodgkin Lymphoma: Balancing Cure, Toxicity, and Quality of Life

Moderator: Dr Tan Sen Mui

Haemostasis and Thrombosis
From Bleeding to Clotting: Clinical Challenges in Haemostasis and Thrombosis

Moderator: Dr Cheong Chin Sum

Advances in Flow Cytometry
MRD Assessment in B-ALL

Moderator: Dr Nabeelah binti
Abdul Khalid

Nursing and Allied Health
Education Session 2

Moderator: Miss Priyadharshini Ramasamy

11.15 - 11.40 am

11.40 - 12.05 pm

12.05 - 12.30 pm

12.30 - 12.45 pm

Epidemiology of Hodgkin Lymphoma: Global Patterns, Local Realities

Prof Dr Gan Gin Gin

Optimizing Frontline Therapy in Hodgkin Lymphoma: Balancing Efficacy and Late Effects

Dr Michelle Poon Li Mei

Managing Relapsed Hodgkin Lymphoma: Integrating Transplantation and Immunotherapy

PD Dr Paul Jan Brockelmann

Panel Discussion

How I Treat Bleeding Disorders: From Laboratory Evaluation to Bedside Management

Dr Veena Selvaratnam

How I Treat Venous Thromboembolism: The Nuances of Clinical Management

Dr Andy Tang

How I Treat Thrombocytopenia: From First Platelet Count to Targeted Therapy

Dr Nur Aini Syakirah

Panel Discussion

Current Practice of BCP-ALL MRD in Flow Cytometry and Next Generation Flow

Dr Amitav Mohanty

BCP-ALL MRD: Case Studies Discussion

Dr Amitav Mohanty

Panel Discussion

Weight-Adjusted Chemotherapy Dosing in Haematology: Is Ideal Body Weight the Preferred Metric?

Miss Lee Yi Jing

Nursing Challenges in Chemotherapy Administration for Haematology Patients

Puan Azizan binti Mohd Isa

Symptom Control and Goal-Concordant Care for Critically Ill Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Haematologic Malignancies

Dr Look Mei Ling

Panel Discussion

12.45 - 1.45 pm

Lunch Symposium 1
Ballroom 1 & 2

First-line Treatment of Advanced-stage Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma (as-cHL)

PD Dr Paul J Bröckelmann
German Hodgkin Study Group (GHSG) and University Hospital of Cologne, Germany

Chairperson: Dato’ Dr Chang Kian Meng

1.45 - 2.30 pm

Friday Prayers

EDUCATION SESSION 3

Plasma Cell Disorders

Myeloma: Is a Cure on the Horizon?

Moderator: Prof Dr Bee Ping Chong

Oral Presentations

Chairperson: Dr Wee Shiang Yui

When Genetic Disorders Collide: 

Understanding
Co-Inheritance and Its Impact

Moderator: Dr Nani Shahida

Nursing and Allied Health
Education Session 3

Moderator: SN Selvemalini Muruvin

2.30 - 2.55 pm

2.55 - 3.20 pm

3.20 - 3.30 pm

Triplets, Quadruplets, and Beyond: Optimizing Frontline Myeloma Therapy

Dr Jay Suriar

Toward Functional Cure: Emerging Therapies in Relapsed and Refractory Myeloma

Prof Dr Chng Wee Joo

Panel Discussion

Laboratory Oral Presentations

When Genes Collide: Co‑Inheritance of SAO and Thalassemia—Does It Really Matter?

Dr Hafizah Hashim

Co-inheritance of Alpha and Beta Thalassemia

Dr Hafizah Hashim

Panel Discussion

Optimising Patient Readiness for Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation:
A Nursing Perspective

KJ Norhafiza Razali

Comprehensive Nursing Care Following Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Miss Jedidah Lieow Leng Meng

Panel Discussion

3.30 - 3.45 pm

Industry Showcase / Poster Walk

3.45 - 4.30 pm

Tea Break Symposium 1
Ballroom 1 & 2

STARGLO at 3 Years: Why Durability Matters in 2L+ DLBCL

A/Prof Matthew Ku
Consultant Clinical & Laboratory Haematologist
Deputy Director Clinical Haematology Service
St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne

Chairperson: Dr Boo Yang Liang

Tea Break Symposium 2
Gambir 3

Evolving Standards and Emerging Frontiers in Multiple Myeloma

Prof Andrew Spencer
Head of the Malignant Haematology, Transplantation and Cellular
Therapy Service at The Alfred Hospital
Professor of Haematology at Monash University and Head of the Myeloma Research Group (MRG)

Dr Andy Tang

Consultant Haematologist
Sunway Medical Centre

Chairperson: Dr Khaiteri Raghunathan

4.30 - 5.30 pm

Advancing Clinical Haematology in Malaysia: Best Practices and Innovations

How Do Adjunctive Investigations Implicate Clinical Decisions?

Dr Boo Yang Liang, Hospital Sultanah Aminah

Allogenic Stem Cell Transplant in East Malaysia: Nuances and Challenges

Dr Khaiteri Raghunathan, Hospital Queen Elizabeth

Expanding Molecular Haematology Services: Balancing Equitable and CostEffective Precision Care

Dr Veena Selvaratnam, Hospital Ampang

Moderator: Dr Abu Dzarr Ganesh bin Abdullah

Best Poster Presentation

6.30 - 9.30 pm

Faculty Dinner (By Invitation Only)

2.00pm - 2.30pm

CLINICAL

Ballroom 1 & 2

EARLY CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Gambir 1

LABORATORY

Gambir 3

NURSING AND ALLIED HEALTH

Lada 2 & 3

7.30 - 8.30 am

Registration

Industry Showcase

EDUCATION SESSION 4

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia

How to treat AYA ALL?

Moderator: Dr Toh See Guan

Comprehensive Haemato-Oncology Care

Navigating Complications Across the Chemo–Transplant Continuum

Moderator: Dr Lily Wong

Advances in Molecular Testing

Diagnostics and Monitoring of Myeloid Disorders

Moderator: Dr Siti Fatimah binti
Mohamed Kamaruzzaman

Nursing and Allied Health
Education Session 4

Moderator: Ms Nor Shaheera Izaze

8.30 - 8.55 am

AYA Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia:
Bridging Pediatric and Adult Protocols

Prof Dr Allen Yeoh

How I Manage Post-Transplant
Patients: Monitoring, Complications,
and Long-Term Care

Dato’ Dr Chang Kian Meng

Pathology in Malaysia: Current Challenges, Future Directions, and Strategic Development

Dr Raudhawati Osman

Best Nursing Practices in CLABSI Prevention in Haematology Units

Matron Khairun Nisak binti Sairan

8.55 - 9.20 am

AYA ALL: Is Transplant Still the Gold Standard?

Dr Michelle Poon Li Mei

How I Support Patients After Chemotherapy Toxicity Management, Monitoring, and Survivorship Care

Dr Tan Sui Keat

BCR::ABL1 Monitoring in Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia – Navigating the 2025 – 2026 Guidelines

Dr Siti Shahrum Muhamed Said

The First Hour Matters: Nursing Response to Suspected Neutropenic Sepsis

Dr Chang Chee Yik

9.20 - 09.45 am

High-Risk AYA ALL: Contemporary Challenges and Evolving Solutions

Dr Ng Chin Hin

How I Treat Infections in Haematology Patients: Practical Strategies for Clinicians

Dr Khaiteri Raghunathan

NGS in Myeloid Disorders

Dr Yuslina Matt Yusoff

Beyond Clinical Care: Counselling Essentials for Haemato-Oncology Nurses

Matron Chui Siew Queen

9.45 - 10.00 am

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

10.00 - 10.45 am

Tea Break Symposium 3
Ballroom 1 & 2

Myelobrosis: Getting the Most from Standard of Care From First Dose to Long-term Control

Prof. Dr. Med. Haifa Kathrin Al-Ali
Consultant Hematologist Martin-Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany

Chairperson: Dr Chew Lee Ping

Tea Break Symposium 4
Gambir 3

Optimising Treatment Strategies for MZL and MCL Using BTK Inhibitors

Dr Chandramouli Nagarajan
Senior Consultant Haematologist & Transplant Physician Singapore General Hospital

Chairperson: Dr Lim Soo Min

EDUCATION SESSION 5

Indolent Lymphoma

Current Practice and Future Directions

Moderator: A/P Dr Azlan bin Husin

Oral Presentations

Chairperson: Dr Boo Yang Liang

The Difficult Lymphomas

Practical Strategies in Trephine Biopsy Diagnosis

Moderator: Dr Syirah Nazirah

Lines that Save Lives:

Mastering Central Line Care in Haematology

10.45 - 11.10 am

11.10 - 11.35 am

11.35 - 12.00 pm

12.00 - 12.15 pm

Marginal Zone Lymphoma: Understanding the Biology of MZL – From Splenic to Extranodal Subtypes

Dr Leong Tze Shin

Advancements in Treatment of R/R Follicular Lymphoma

Dr Jerome Tan Tsen Chuen

Frontline Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia in 2026: Chemoimmunotherapy or BTK inhibitors?

A/P Dr Ja Min Byun

Panel Discussion

Clinical Oral Presentations

T-Cell Lymphoma and Mimickers in Trephine Biopsy

Prof Dr Tan Soo Yong

Diagnostic Challenges of B-Cell and Hodgkin Lymphoma in Trephine Biopsy

Prof Dr Tan Soo Yong

Panel Discussion

Central Venous Access Device (CVAD) Care: PICC Lines and Chemoports

Practical Skills Masterclass:
Station 1: PICC line care
Station 2: Chemoport care

Panel Discussion

12.15 - 1.00 pm

John Bosco Lecture

Cellular Therapy in Malaysia: From Stem Cell Transplantation to CAR-T Therapy

Dato’ Dr Chang Kian Meng
Consultant Haematologist and Transplant Physician, Sunway Medical Centre

Chairperson: Dr Lim Su Hong

1.00 - 2.00 pm

Lunch Symposium 2
Ballroom 1 & 2

EPKINLY in 3L+ Follicular Lymphoma

Prof Dr Huang Tai-Chung
Hematologist National Taiwan University

Chairperson: Dato’ Dr Chang Kian Meng

EDUCATION SESSION 6

Marrow Failure Syndromes
From Diagnosis to Personalised Therapeutic

Moderator: Prof Dr S Fadilah

Anaemia
Practical Management of Anaemia in Adults

Moderator: Dato’ Dr Goh Ai Sim

Transfusion Medicine
Precision Approaches to Alloimmunised Patients

Moderator: Dr Noraini Binti Amir

Nursing and Allied Health
Education Session 5

Moderator: Mr Md Syamil Bin Ab Jalil

2.00 - 2.25 pm

Acquired Aplastic Anemia Frontline Treatment Optimization: IST + Eltrombopag and Beyond

Dr Chew Lee Ping

How I Treat Haemolytic Anaemia: A Practical, Case-Based Approach

Dr Yong Kar Ying

Red Cell Alloantibodies in Pregnancy: Clinical Challenges and Management

Dr Mohd Redzuan bin Abdullah

Unmet Needs in Malaysian Haemophilia Care: Transition from Paediatric to Adult Services

Puan Wan Alia Amalina
binti Adenan

2.25 - 2.50 pm

Advances in Haploidentical HSCT for Aplastic Anaemia

A/P Dr Linn Yeh Ching

How I Treat Iron Deficiency Anaemia: To Transfuse or Not Transfuse?

Dr Ahlam Naila Kori

Management of the Multiply Alloimmunised Patient: From Transfusion Strategy to Clinical Intervention

Dr Afif Bin Alam Faizli

Nursing Coordination in Multidisciplinary
Thalassaemia Care

Matron Chui Siew Queen

2.50 - 3.15 pm

Unmasking Hidden Hereditary Marrow Failure: Clinical Clues Across the Age Spectrum

Prof Dr Hany Ariffin

How I Manage Thalassemia: Comprehensive Management and Future Directions

Dr Liew Hong Keng

Rethinking Blood Use: The Way Forward in Patient Blood Management

Dr Jameela Sathar

Safe Blood Transfusion: The Nurse’s Role
from Bank to Bedside

Dr Nuraini binti Sham

3.15 - 3.30 pm

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

Panel Discussion

3.30 - 3.45 pm

Industry Showcase / Poster Walk

3.45 - 4.30 pm

Tea Break Symposium 5
Ballroom 1 & 2

Redefining PNH Care in Malaysia with Ultomiris

Dr Khaiteri Raghunathan
Clinical Haematologist
Hospital Queen Elizabeth

Dr Andy Tang

Consultant Clinical Haematologist
Sunway Medical Centre

Chairperson: Dr Chew Lee Ping

Tea Break Symposium 6
Gambir 3

CML and Dasatinib in Practice: Real Cases

Clin Prof Goh Yeow Tee
Senior Consultant Haematologist
Singapore General Hospital

Chairperson: Dato’ Dr Chang Kian Meng

4.30 - 5.00 pm

Prize Giving and Closing Ceremony

Prof Dr Koh Liang Piu

Consultant Haematologist and Transplant Physician

National University Hospital Singapore

Minimal Residual Disease and AML Transplantation: The MRD-Guided Era

Koh Liang Piu, Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore

Measurable residual disease (MRD) is now the most powerful post-treatment prognostic indicator in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The 2025 ELN-DAVID consensus introduces a refined framework with three qualitative response categories—optimal, warning, and high risk of treatment failure—to enhance risk stratification and guide clinical decisions. Pre-transplant MRD positivity strongly predicts inferior post-transplant outcomes but does not contraindicate transplantation. Notably, in favourable-risk and intermediate-risk AML, MRD status overrides baseline genetic risk: MRD-negative patients may safely defer allogeneic transplant, while MRD-positive patients derive significant survival benefit from transplantation. Younger MRD-positive patients also achieve better outcomes with myeloablative rather than reduced-intensity conditioning. Post-transplant, monthly peripheral blood MRD monitoring enables early relapse detection. The RELAZA2 trial demonstrated that MRD-guided pre-emptive azacitidine effectively prevents or delays haematological relapse, with over half of responders maintaining remission beyond two years. Pre-emptive mutation-directed therapies—including FLT3 and IDH inhibitors, venetoclax-based combinations, and emerging menin inhibitors—are now recommended. The 2025 EBMT and ELN-DAVID guidelines provide a harmonised, practical framework for MRD-driven strategies throughout the transplant journey, transforming MRD from a prognostic marker into an actionable therapeutic target to improve patient outcomes.

Dr Tan Jin Hui

Rehabilitation Physician

Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru

Dr Tan Jin Hui
Johor State Domicilliary Palliative Clinical Advisor

Preventing Deconditioning and Promoting Functional Recovery in Haematology Patients: Practical Strategies for Nurses

Patients with haematological disorders, particularly those undergoing intensive chemotherapy, prolonged hospitalization, or stem cell transplantation, are highly vulnerable to rapid deconditioning due to fatigue, inactivity, muscle loss, anemia, , infection risk, neuropathy and treatment-related complications. Functional decline can develop early and may affect mobility, independence in activities of daily living, discharge readiness, and overall quality of life.

The aim of this session is to equip nurses and allied healthcare staff with strategies to reduce functional decline and help patients maintain mobility and independence throughout treatment. By including movement into routine care, nurses play an important role in preserving function and improving patient outcomes.

Dr Tan Sen Mui

Consultant Haematologist

Subang Jaya Medical Centre

Dr Tan Sen Mui obtained her basic medical degree locally and MRCP in UK. Started haematology training in the MOH in 2001 and subsequently further has her training in stem cell transplantation followed by research in cancer immunotherapy in University Wuerzburg, Germany.

She has special interest in cancer immunotherapy and actively participated in clinical trials. She joins private in SJMC following her retirement after serving more than 3 decades of government service, mainly in Hospital Ampang.

She is also the past secretary of Malaysian Society of Haematology (MSH) and member of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT).

Ms Priyadharshini AP Ramasamy

Pharmacist

Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru

Priyadharshini A/P Ramasamy is a credentialed clinical pharmacist based in Malaysia, actively serving at Hospital Sultanah Aminah in Johor Bahru. Her clinical credentials include specialized expertise in Warfarin Management Therapy, formally recognized by the Malaysia Ministry of Health Pharmacy Services. 

Dr Andy Tang

Consultant Haematologist

Sunway Medical Centre

Bio
Dr Andy Tang Sing Ong is a Consultant Haematologist and Transplant physician from Sunway Medical Centre. He holds dual fellowships from Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (FRCP) and Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath – Haematology) and trained at premier institutions including National University Hospital (NUH) Singapore. Accredited by the European Hematology Association (EHA) and European Society of Bone and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT), his clinical focus includes leukaemia, lymphoma, haemostasis, thrombosis, laboratory and transfusion medicine, stem cell transplantation and cellular therapy.

Abstract
Clinical management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in 2026 centers on personalized, risk-adapted strategies, moving away from “one-size-fits-all” approaches toward shared decision-making, with a focus on maximizing safety and reducing long-term complications. The key nuances in the clinical management of VTE will be discussed, including anticoagulation nuances – choice and duration, and with a particular focus on  VTE in special populations/ unusual site venous thromboembolism. 

Dr Nur Aini Syakirah

Clinical Haematologist

Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II

Dr Nur Aini Syakirah
Clinical Hematologist and Internal Medicine Physician

Dr. Nur Aini Syakirah Ahmad Shuyuti is a Clinical Hematologist and Internal Medicine Physician based in Kota Bharu, currently practicing at Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II, where she also leads clinical hematology services in the state. She holds a Fellowship in Clinical Haematology from the Malaysian Society of Hematology and a Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine) from Universiti Sains Malaysia, with a career spanning role from house officer to consultant specialist. In addition to heading the Hematology Unit and Medical Daycare services, she is actively involved in postgraduate medical training and serves as an honorary lecturer at multiple Malaysian universities. Her professional contributions extend to memberships in key national and international medical organizations, while her research portfolio includes extensive involvement in multicentre clinical trials as a principal investigator, co-investigator, and sub-investigator, focusing on hematologic malignancies, genetic studies, and novel therapeutic approaches.

Dr Amitav Mohanty

Senior Medical & Scientific Affairs Manager

Waters Biosciences Division (formerly BD Biosciences)

Asia Pacific

Current Practice of BCP-ALL MRD in Flow Cytometry and Next Generation Flow

Measurable residual disease (MRD) assessment has become an integral component of risk stratification and treatment response monitoring in B‑cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‑ALL). Over the past decade, flow cytometry based MRD has evolved significantly, driven by methodological standardization, advances in multicolor instrumentation, optimized antibody panels, and sophisticated data analysis platforms.

This session will review the current clinical practice of BCP‑ALL MRD by flow cytometry, with emphasis on the implementation of standardized EuroFlow based workflows that enable reproducible and harmonized MRD assessment across laboratories. The importanceof end‑to‑end standardization from sample preparation, antibody panel design, data acquisition, to reporting will be discussed, highlighting how such approaches reduce interlaboratory variability and support consistent clinical decision making. Advancements in modern flow cytometers and analytical software have further strengthened assay robustness, allowing high‑event acquisition and objective, database‑guided analysis. These technologies facilitate improved sensitivity, accuracy, and reproducibility focusing on next‑generation, high‑sensitivity BCP-ALL MRD assays using Next‑Generation Flow principles, which push detection limits to below 10⁻⁵.

Finally, selected cases will be analyzed to demonstrate common diagnostic challenges, interpretative pitfalls. Together, these examples will illustrate how current and next‑generation MRD strategies can be effectively integrated into routine workflows to deliver clinically meaningful insights in BCP‑ALL management.

Miss Lee Yi Jing

Pharmacist

Hospital Ampang

Ms Lee Yi Jing
Pharmacist, Hospital Ampang

Lee Yi Jing is a hospital pharmacist with extensive hands-on experience in cytotoxic drug reconstitution and oncology pharmacy.

With a proven track record at Hospital Ampang, she has led cytotoxic drug reconstitution in cleanroom environments, managed inventories and budgets, and implemented SOPs to enhance safety, quality, and regulatory compliance. Her roles have spanned clinical trial coordination under Good Clinical Practice, haematology medication management, chemotherapy counseling, and biannual health checks for CDR personnel. She also served in leadership as Hospital Ampang representative for the Oncology Pharmacy Working Committee at both Selangor state level and national level.

Dr Look Mei Ling

Palliative Medicine Physician and Internal Medicine Specialist

Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru

Dr Look Mei Ling
Johor State Domicilliary Palliative Clinical Advisor

The management of critically ill patients with relapsed or refractory haematologic malignancies presents a unique clinical challenge. Unlike many solid tumors, the trajectory of haematologic cancers is often characterized by high symptom burden and rapid clinical shifts. Every member of the interdisciplinary team play a pivotal role in ensuring effective symptom control while supporting care that remains aligned with patients’ goals and values.

This session aims to highlight common and distressing symptoms in this population—including pain, dyspnoea, delirium, nausea and vomiting—and discuss practical, evidence-based strategies for their management. Emphasis will be placed on safe and effective medication use, non-pharmacological interventions, deprescribing where appropriate, and navigating challenges such as limited oral routes.

Participants will also gain insight into approaches to elicit patients’ values and preferences when faced with a serious life-limiting illness. This is essential to ensure delivery of compassionate, patient-centred care that honours both symptom relief and what matters most to patients and their families.

Dr Hafizah Hashim

Pathologist

Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Alor Setar

Co‑inheritance of Alpha and Beta Thalassemia: Diagnostic and Clinical Implications

Co‑inheritance of alpha and beta thalassemia represents an important yet often
under‑recognized contributor to diagnostic complexity in populations with high thalassemia carrier rates. The interaction between reduced α‑globin and β‑globin synthesis can significantly modify hematological indices, leading to phenotypes that deviate from classical patterns expected for isolated alpha or beta thalassemia traits. Individuals with combined defects may present with milder microcytosis, borderline or atypical HbA₂ levels, or discordant red cell parameters that challenge routine screening algorithms and risk misclassification. These atypical findings underscore the limitations of relying solely on hematology and electrophoresis profiles. In certain instances, severe clinical phenotypes can arise, such as those caused by the co-inheritance of alpha-globin gene triplication/quadriplication .

Molecular testing remains essential for accurate genotype definition, particularly when α‑gene deletions ameliorate the severity of β‑thalassemia mutations or when β‑variants unmask underlying α‑thalassemia. Understanding these genotype–phenotype interactions is crucial for refining reflex testing strategies, improving laboratory interpretation, and ensuring precise carrier counselling. This presentation will highlight local case examples, discuss diagnostic pitfalls, and emphasize the importance of integrated hematological and molecular approaches. Strengthening awareness of co‑inheritance patterns supports more accurate risk assessment and enhances the effectiveness of national thalassemia prevention programs.

When Genes Collide: Co-inheritance of SAO and Thalassemia – Does It
Really Matter?

Southeast Asian Ovalocytosis (SAO) and thalassemia are two of the most common inherited red cell disorders in Malaysia, frequently encountered in both routine screening and targeted diagnostic workflows. While each condition independently produces characteristic haematological and morphological features, their co‑inheritance presents a unique interpretive challenge for laboratories and clinicians. As national programmes expand reflex
testing, antenatal screening, and molecular confirmation, understanding how these two conditions interact has become increasingly important.

This presentation will share cases of co-inheritance of SAO and thalassemia, specifically addressing the question of whether its presence genuinely affects diagnostic accuracy, phenotypic expression, or genetic counselling outcomes, or if it is clinically insignificant. We explore how SAO’s rigid erythrocyte membrane and distinctive ovalocytic morphology may mask, mimic, or modify the classical features of α‑ or β‑thalassemia carriers. Particular emphasis is placed on atypical red cell indices, misleading MCV/MCH patterns, and the potential for discordance between smear findings, Hb analysis, and molecular results. Beyond laboratory interpretation, the talk highlights implications for genetic counselling, especially in antenatal settings where accurate carrier identification is critical. Although most individuals with SAO–thalassemia co‑inheritance remain clinically well, the interaction between these genes can influence reporting clarity, partner testing decisions, and communication with families.

Ultimately, recognising when “genes collide” allows laboratories to refine reflex algorithms, avoid over‑diagnosis, and strengthen the reliability of national thalassemia screening. This session provides practical guidance for pathologists, scientists, and clinicians navigating this under‑appreciated but increasingly relevant diagnostic scenario.

KJ Norhafiza Razali

Department of haematology, Hospital Ampang

KJ Norhafiza Razali
Department of haematology, Hospital Ampang

Optimising Patient Readiness for Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation:
A Nursing Perspective

Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) is a complex and high-risk treatment that requires careful patient preparation to ensure optimal outcomes. Nursing plays a key role in improving patient readiness before transplantation by providing education, psychological support, symptom management, and physical assessment. The lecture explores how nursing interventions can enhance patient understanding of the procedure, improve adherence to pre transplant requirements, and reduce anxiety. Effective communication, early identification of potential complications, and individualized care planning are essential components of nursing practice in HSCT preparation. By optimizing patient readiness, nurses contribute to improved transplant success rates, reduced complications, and better overall patient experiences.

Dr Toh See Guan

Haematologist

Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar Seremban

Dr Toh See Guan
Hematologist in Hematology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Tuanku Ja'afar Seremban

Dr. Toh See Guan is a highly respected clinical haematologist and internal medicine specialist based in Malaysia. He primarily serves at Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar (HTJ) in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, where he plays a crucial role in patient care, public health registries, and clinical research. 

At Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar, Dr. Toh oversees complex blood disorders and serves as a key resource for the state’s bleeding disorder and haemophilia care. He has also been deeply involved with the Malaysia Thalassaemia Registry, helping manage and standardize patient care nationally.

Dr. Toh is an active clinical investigator. He was instrumental in launching and spearheading critical research and clinical trials for Beta Thalassemia Major Anemia in Malaysia.

He frequently collaborates with patient support networks, such as the Max Family Society Malaysia, to conduct public awareness talks, provide consultations for blood cancer warriors (like those with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia), and empower patients with accurate disease and treatment information.

He has contributed to professional medical journals, publishing work on the management of chronic myeloid leukaemia and clinical haematology diagnostics. 

Dr Tan Sui Keat

Consultant Haematologist and Transplant Physician

ICON Oncology

Dr Tan Sui Keat
Clinical Hematologist and Transplant Physician

Supportive care following chemotherapy is an essential component of cancer management. Beyond achieving disease control, clinicians play a crucial role in helping patients recover safely from treatment-related toxicities, maintain quality of life, and transition into long-term survivorship care.

This presentation will discuss practical strategies in supporting patients after chemotherapy, including early recognition and management of hematological and non-hematological toxicities, infection surveillance, nutritional support, symptom control, and monitoring for treatment-related complications. Emphasis will also be placed on patient education, psychosocial support, rehabilitation, vaccination, fertility considerations, and long-term surveillance for relapse or secondary malignancies.

Matron Chui Siew Queen

Beyond Clinical Care: Counselling Essentials for Haemato-Oncology Nurses

Haemato-oncology nursing extends beyond the delivery of complex clinical care to encompass the psychological and emotional well-being of patients and their families. Individuals diagnosed with hematological malignancies often experience significant distress, including fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and depression, which may impact treatment adherence and overall outcomes. In this context, nurses play a pivotal role in providing holistic care through effective communication and basic counselling support.

The essential counselling principles required in haemato-oncology settings are emphasizing core competencies such as active listening, empathy, therapeutic communication, and cultural sensitivity. It also highlights the importance of supporting families, maintaining professional boundaries, and recognizing when to refer patients to specialized services.

By integrating counselling skills into daily nursing practice, haemato-oncology nurses can enhance patient coping, strengthen therapeutic relationships, and contribute to improved quality of care, aims to equip nurses with practical approaches to deliver compassionate, patient care in challenging clinical environments.


Nursing Coordination in Multidisciplinary Thalassemia Care

Thalassemia is a chronic hematological condition requiring lifelong, coordinated management across multiple specialties. Effective multidisciplinary care is essential to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. Within this framework, nursing coordination plays a critical role in ensuring continuity, safety, and patient-centered care.

The role of the nursing coordinator in integrating services across disciplines, including hematology, transfusion therapy, iron chelation management, and psychosocial support. Key responsibilities such as patient education, monitoring treatment adherence, coordinating appointments, and early detection of complications are important and highlighted.

Challenges in care coordination, including patient compliance and system limitations, are also important and highlighted, together with practical strategies to enhance efficiency and communication within the multidisciplinary team.

Effective nursing coordination contributes significantly to improved clinical outcomes and quality of life for patients with thalassemia.

A/Prof Dr Azlan Husin

Senior Consultant Haematologist

Universiti Sains Malaysia

AP Prof Azlan Bin Husin
Associate Professor, Consultant Physician,
and Clinical Haematologist

Dr Azlan Husin is an Associate Professor, Consultant Physician, and Clinical Haematologist in the Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Kelantan. He obtained his medical degree from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) in 1996, was certified as an Internal Medicine specialist in 2005, and subsequently qualified as a Clinical Haematologist in 2010. He has served multiple terms as a council member of the Malaysian Society of Haematology, as member and chair of Examination Committee. Since 2021, he has been the Chairman of USM’s Human Research Ethics Committee (JEPeM‑USM).

Dr Leong Tze ShinInternal

Consultant Haematologist

Hospital Umum Sarawak

Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) is often a marginalised or “forgotten” lymphoma, despite being one of the most common indolent B-cell lymphomas and, in parts of Asia, likely rivalling follicular lymphoma in frequency. Encompassing splenic, nodal, and extranodal (MALT) subtypes, MZL is driven by chronic antigenic stimulation, immune dysregulation, and key molecular pathways including NF-κB activation. This session will provide a concise overview of its biology and pathophysiology, alongside a practical approach to management. Specific strategies include Helicobacter pylori eradication in gastric MALT lymphoma, observation in asymptomatic splenic MZL, and use of rituximab-based therapy or BTK inhibitors in advanced or relapsed disease, highlighting a tailored, subtype-directed approach.

Dr Jerome Tan Tsen Chuen

Consultant Haematologist

Hospital Ampang

Dr Jerome Tan Tsen Chuen
Head of CRC Unit Hospital Ampang, Selangor

Advancement in the treatment of R/R Follicular Lymphoma

Follicular Lymphoma (FL) is the 2nd most common B-NHL after DLBCL. It is generally more common in the elderly and is categorized as an indolent lymphoma with long survival. Typical chromosomal translocation t(14;18) in FL involves the IGH and BCL-2 genes. However, there are recurrent mutations involving epigenetic regulators as well. The FLIPI score is a well-known and established risk stratification tool for FL. Recently, a clinicogenetic model which incorporates the mutational status of 7 genes with the FLIPI score has been reported to improve risk stratification and able to predict progression of disease within 24 months (POD24).

Current treatment in newly diagnosed advanced FL typically involves chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) with either R-CHOP/R-CVP or R-Bendamustine. Based on the recent findings of the GALLIUM trial, the mutational status of 2 genes, EZH2 and CREBBP were able to predict cohorts which may benefit from R-CHOP/R-CVP vs R-Bendamustine.

In relapse/refractory FL, the conventional option of CIT or R-Lenalidomide have been the mainstay of therapy. However, patients with POD24 do rather poorly with conventional therapies. Recently emerging options such as antiCD19 monoclonal antibody and Bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) have been approved for R/R FL with impressive results. CAR-T is also an attractive option. The emerging BiTEs therapy with or without additional oral agents have also been tested in newly diagnosed FL in a fixed duration manner with subcutaneous administration.

The outlook of FL appears to be promising and better therapeutic strategies are on the horizon. A more personalized approach with better risk prediction models, tailored therapeutic options and emerging cellular therapies heralds an exciting era ahead.

A/Prof Dr Ja Min Byun

Senior Consultant Haematologist

Seoul National University Hospital

Frontline Waldentrom’s Macroglobulinemia in 2026: Chemoimmunotherapy or BTK inhibitors?

Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma characterized by clonal bone marrow infiltration, monoclonal IgM paraproteinemia, and recurrent somatic mutations in MYD88 (~95%) and CXCR4 (~40%). Despite significant therapeutic advances, no randomized controlled trial has directly compared chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) with BTK inhibitor (BTKi)-based frontline therapy, rendering optimal treatment selection an area of ongoing clinical debate.

Rituximab-based CIT regimens – principally bendamustine-rituximab (BR) and dexamethasone-rituximab-cyclophosphamide (DRC) – have historically formed the frontline backbone. BR achieves major response rates (MRR) exceeding 90% with a fixed-duration schedule, with 4-year PFS of 73% in treatment-naïve patients, but is associated with prolonged myelosuppression, immune compromise, and risk of secondary myeloid neoplasms. The phase III iNNOVATE study established ibrutinib plus rituximab as a chemotherapy-free alternative with superior PFS over rituximab monotherapy. In the phase III ASPEN trial, zanubrutinib demonstrated VGPR/CR rates of 36.3% versus 25.3% with ibrutinib at 44.4 months median follow-up in MYD88-mutated WM, with a more favorable cardiovascular toxicity profile. Extended follow-up at 5.8 years confirmed 60-month PFS event-free rates of 74.8% with zanubrutinib in MYD88-mutated disease. However, BTKi requires indefinite continuous administration and carries risks of atrial fibrillation, bleeding, and hypertension.

Critically, genomic profile profoundly influences treatment selection. CXCR4-mutated patients have lower VGPR/CR rates and longer time to response with BTKi, while TP53 mutation confers inferior outcomes with ibrutinib but not with zanubrutinib. Patients with MYD88-wildtype disease demonstrate negligible responses to ibrutinib, favoring CIT or zanubrutinib in this subgroup. In a large international comparative study of treatment-naïve WM, 4-year PFS was equivalent between BR and ibrutinib at 73% each, though BR yielded significantly higher ≥VGPR rates and superior OS in unmatched analysis.

In 2026, frontline decision-making in WM must integrate MYD88/CXCR4/TP53 mutational status, age, cardiovascular comorbidities, treatment urgency, stem-cell harvest intent, and patient preference for fixed- versus continuous-duration therapy. A genomics-guided, risk-stratified treatment algorithm is proposed to individualize frontline therapy and optimize long-term outcomes.

Dr Noraini Binti Amir

Pathologist (Haematology)

Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom, Kluang

Dr Noraini Binti Amir is a Pathologist (Haematology) in Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom Kluang, Johor. She obtained her medical degree from Universiti Putra Malaysia on 2006 and then was certified as Pathologist on 2018 also from Universiti Putra Malaysia. She is currently the Head of the Department of Pathology and Blood Bank at Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom.

Dr Yong Kar Ying

Consultant Hematologist & Internal Medicine Specialist

Miri Hospital (Hospital Miri)

How I Treat Haemolytic Anaemia: A Practical Case (Dr Yong Kar Ying)

Haemolytic anaemia represents a diverse group of disorders characterized by premature red cell destruction, with varied etiologies ranging from immune-mediated processes to inherited membrane and enzymatic defects. The heterogeneity of presentations often poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in clinical practice. This session adopts a practical, case-based approach to the evaluation and management of haemolytic anaemia. Through real-life clinical scenarios, key principles in recognizing haemolysis, interpreting laboratory findings, and differentiating between immune and non-immune causes will be highlighted. Emphasis will be placed on structured diagnostic strategies, including the role of direct antiglobulin testing, peripheral blood film assessment, and relevant biochemical markers. Management strategies will be discussed in a pragmatic manner, focusing on first-line and subsequent therapies for common conditions such as autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, as well as the approach to secondary causes.

Dr Mohd Redzuan bin Abdullah

Head of Transfusion Medicine Unit

Hospital Sultan Ismail, Johor Bahru

Red Cell Alloantibodies in Pregnancy: Clinical Challenges and Management.

Red cell alloimmunisation in pregnancy remains an important cause of Haemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (HDFN), despite the widespread use of anti-Rh(D) immunoglobulin prophylaxis. Increasingly, non-Rh(D) antibodies are contributing to fetal morbidity and mortality, presenting evolving diagnostic and management challenges. This presentation provides a narrative review of current guidelines and literature, including recommendations from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), alongside relevant regional practices. Key areas include antenatal screening, antibody identification, fetal monitoring, and transfusion support. Early identification, appropriate risk stratification, and
multidisciplinary management are essential to improving outcomes.

A/Prof Dr Linn Yeh Ching

Senior Consultant Haematologist and Transplant Physician

Singapore General Hospital

AP Dr Linn Yeh Ching
Senior Consultant, Dept of Haematology,
Singapore General Hospital

Advances in Haploidentical HSCT for Aplastic Anaemia

The speaker will approach this topic by attempting to answer a series of questions that are relevant to performing a haploidentical transplant for SAA. This includes clinical indication for using a haplo donor, donor characteristics, timing of transplant, conditioning regimen, GVHD prophylaxis platform, etc. The transplant outcome of SAA with various donor types in Singapore General Hospital will also be presented.

Dr Afif Bin Alam Faizli

Head of Transfusion Medicine Department

Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah

Management of Multiple Alloimmunised Patient: From Transfusion Strategy to
Clinical Intervention

Multiply alloimmunised patients represent a growing and complex challenge in transfusion medicine, particularly among individuals requiring chronic transfusion support, such as those with hemoglobinopathies and haematologic disorders. The presence of multiple clinically significant red cell antibodies complicates the timely provision of compatible blood and increases the risk of adverse outcomes, including haemolytic transfusion reactions and hyperhaemolysis.

Key transfusion strategies will be discussed, including extended antigen matching, the role of red cell genotyping, and the utilisation of rare donor resources to optimise compatibility and minimise further alloimmunisation. The session will also address critical clinical scenarios such as haemolytic transfusion reactions and hyperhaemolysis syndrome, highlighting the importance of recognising these complications and initiating appropriate immunomodulatory interventions, including corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin, and targeted therapies.

Through selected case-based discussions, this presentation aims to bridge laboratory practice and clinical management, emphasising a multidisciplinary approach and the importance of a comprehensive transfusion history in guiding safe and effective patient care. These cases underscore that prevention of alloimmunisation, early identification of at-risk patients, and judicious transfusion practices remain central to improving outcomes in this complex patient group.

Dr Liew Hong Keng

Consultant Clinical Haematologist & General Physician
Hospital Pulau Pinang

Dr Liew Hong Keng
Consultant Clinical Haematologist & General Physician

LIEW HONG KENG is a specialist in INTERNAL MEDICINE (GENERAL) | CLINICAL HAEMATOLOGY, serving patients at HOSPITAL PULAU PINANG, GEORGETOWN and HOSPITAL SULTANAH BAHIYAH, ALOR SETAR. With a dedication to comprehensive medical care, LIEW HONG KENG is skilled in the diagnosis and management of diverse medical conditions. Individuals in search of a reliable and proficient physician may find LIEW HONG KENG to be a committed healthcare provider.

LIEW HONG KENG is a medical professional with notable qualifications in INTERNAL MEDICINE (GENERAL) | CLINICAL HAEMATOLOGY. The training and background of LIEW HONG KENG allows patients to receive care that meets the highest standards of current medical practice. LIEW HONG KENG aims to deliver reliable medical services that are centered around the patient.

LIEW HONG KENG offers a wide array of services pertaining to INTERNAL MEDICINE (GENERAL) | CLINICAL HAEMATOLOGY. Patients have the opportunity to receive in-depth evaluations, precise diagnoses, and treatment strategies designed for the individual. These services are structured to address a spectrum of medical requirements, with a strong emphasis on the improvement of patient health and well-being.