APHC 2025 opened with a full day of pre-conference workshops on 23 April, offering a rich array of educational opportunities. Three full-day sessions laid a strong foundation:

In addition, five half-day workshops tackled key challenges in the field:

These sessions offered participants practical skills, innovative frameworks, and regionally relevant solutions.

The official opening on 24 April was a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage and professional solidarity. The day began with a traditional Sarawakian dance and heartfelt reunions among friends and colleagues.

Dr. Ngian Hie Ung, Chair of the Local Organising Committee, and A/Prof Ghauri Aggarwal, Co-Chair of APHC 2025, welcomed delegates with inspiring addresses. A/Prof Aggarwal also read aloud the —a declaration from the international palliative care community on the urgent need to respond to with compassion, equity, and coordinated action. The statement called on governments, health systems, and global partners to prioritise access to palliative care in conflict zones and disaster-affected areas.

Two major initiatives were launched during the ceremony:

These launches were officiated by Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Deputy Minister for Housing, Public Health and Local Government, on behalf of Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

The day continued with three engaging plenaries and the opening of APHN’s mega booth—a hub of learning, snacks, and networking. The evening wrapped up with a welcome drinks reception, where laughter, conversation, and new connections flowed freely.

On 25 April, the conference was anchored by the , delivered with great insight and warmth by Dr. Libby Sallnow. The award was presented by Mr. Masami Otani of the Japan Hospice Palliative Care Foundation.

The day also featured the and culminated in a joyous with the theme “Symphony of Cultures.” A dazzling performance of opened the evening, followed by poetry, cosplay, singing, and spontaneous dance. Delegates from across the world took to the stage to showcase their talents and share in the joy of cultural exchange. Attendees also received free , adding a playful and artistic flair to the festivities.

When the music started, the dance floor came alive—delegates learned traditional Sarawakian dance moves from local hosts, sharing rhythm, laughter, and unforgettable memories. It was a night of celebration, connection, and community, filled with delicious food and fun.

The final day on 26 April was marked by recognition, reflection, and hope.

At the , APHN Executive Director Mr. Giam Cheong Leong opened with a heartfelt speech, followed by a moving video montage of the past few days. As the conference drew to a close, the symbolic conference plaque was passed from Dr. Ngian to A/Prof Aggarwal and then to Dr. Peter Allcroft, Board Chair of Palliative Care Australia, host of the next APHC in 2027. Alongside Ms. Camilla Rowland, CEO of Palliative Care Australia, Dr. Allcroft warmly invited all delegates to join the next gathering.

Final words from Dr. Ngian and A/Prof Aggarwal expressed gratitude, pride, and a shared commitment to the future.

APHN extends its heartfelt thanks to the Local Organising Committee, the speakers, workshop facilitators, performers, volunteers, and every delegate who contributed their time, knowledge, and spirit to make APHC 2025 a resounding success. Together, we are building a future where diversity is celebrated, and communities are empowered to deliver palliative care with dignity, equity, and love.

We look forward to continuing this journey with you—see you at

https://aphn.org/embracing-diversity-empowering-communities-highlights-from-aphc-2025/