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WSI International Conference & Conferment Ceremony in Penang, MalaysiaApr 2025 @ Penang, Malaysia

10th INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE OF DENTISTS (ICD) SECTION XV
&

WORLD STOMATOLOGICAL INSTITUTION (WSI)

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE & INDUCTION CEREMONY

IN PENANG, MALAYSIA18-20TH APRIL 2025

Overview of Activities

Introduction

The 10th ICDXV & WSI International Conference and Induction Ceremony, held from 18th to 20th April 2025 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Penang, Malaysia, brought together over 1,200 delegates from more than 28 countries, uniting global leaders, distinguished dental professionals, academics, and policymakers. Organized by the International College of Dentists Section XV (ICDXV) in collaboration with the World Stomatology Institute (WSI) – WSO previously identified as –, this prestigious event marked a significant milestone in advancing dental medicine on a global stage.

Themed “A New Era of Digital AI Technology in Medicine and Dentistry,” the conference served as a dynamic platform to explore the integration of cutting-edge technologies in healthcare and the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in clinical practice, education, and research. Discussions were framed within the context of modern challenges such as the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery, access disparities, and digital innovation.

Across three days of keynote lectures, panel discussions, scientific paper presentations, exhibitions, and ceremonial inductions, participants exchanged knowledge, showcased innovations, and forged collaborative pathways toward a smarter, more inclusive future in oral health. The event also featured high-level engagements with government representatives, academic institutions, and industry partners, further strengthening Malaysia’s role as a regional hub for scientific excellence and professional development.

At the heart of the ICDXV 2025 was the collective aspiration to uphold excellence, ethics, and service in dentistry while embracing the advancements of tomorrow.

Attendees


The 10th ICDXV & WSI International Conference and Induction Ceremony was attended by 1,156 participants representing 23 countries and regions. The majority hailed from China (53.72%) and Malaysia (27.08%), followed by notable delegations from Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, and India. While the official registration records reflect these figures, the actual number of attendees may be slightly higher due to participants who were not fully registered through the system or did not complete the required documentation. The figures presented here are based strictly on completed and paid registrations.

Pre-Conference Press Event (11 April 2025)

As part of the lead-up to the 10th ICDXV & WSI International Conference and Induction Ceremony, a high-profile Pre-Conference Press Conference was held on 11 April 2025 at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Penang. This event served to officially announce the conference to both national and international audiences and to highlight the significance of the gathering to the future of global oral healthcare.

The press conference was officiated by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, alongside Adjunct Professor Dato’ Dr. How Kim Chuan, Organizing Chairman and President of ICD Section XV and WSI, and Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).

The event drew support and attendance from various government, academic, and industry leaders, and received endorsements from key institutions including the Ministry of Health Malaysia, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MYCEB), and major Malaysian universities such as UM, UKM, UTAR, MAHSA, AIMST, SEGi, IIUM, and PIDC.

Notably, the press conference also highlighted international collaboration, with endorsements from organizations such as the Hong Kong Dental Association, Macau Dental Association, South Dental Alliance, Quanzhou Dental Association, and others.The press event underscored the theme of the conference, “New Era of Digital AI Technology in Medicine and Dentistry,” with speakers emphasizing the role of Penang as a strategic hub for digital transformation in healthcare. The media session concluded with an engaging Q&A and photo session, symbolizing the official launch of the conference and reinforcing Malaysia’s leadership in the global oral health dialogue.

Overview of Activities – Day 1 (18 April 2025)

The first day of the 10th ICDXV & WSI International Conference began with a sense of anticipation and momentum as delegates from more than 28 countries gathered at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Penang. The morning opened with registration and morning tea to warmly welcome the delegates.

The programme was kickstarted with the Global Oral Healthcare Leaders Forum, moderated by Adjunct Professor Dato’ Dr. How Kim Chuan. This prestigious panel brought together visionary leaders including YB Sivakumar Varatharaju (Chairman of MYCEB), Dr. Ian Doyle (President of the International College of Dentists), Professor Chen Jiang (Dean of Fujian Medical University), Emeritus Professor Captain (R) Dato’ Dr. Hashim Yaacob (Dean of SEGi University), and Dr. TC Phua (Master Fellow, ICD Section XV).

The forum explored the transformative role of emerging technologies—particularly artificial intelligence and telehealth—in shaping the future of global oral healthcare. Panelists addressed critical issues such as oral health disparities, the accessibility of patient care, and the development of international collaborative frameworks. Key discussions focused on solutions to workforce shortages, the integration of digital tools in underserved regions, and the global response to evolving oral disease patterns. The session was widely lauded for its strategic insights and emphasis on innovation-driven inclusivity in healthcare delivery.

The Opening Ceremony of the 10th ICDXV & WSI International Conference was then held in the same venue, officiated by YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang. In his keynote, he welcomed delegates from around the world and highlighted Penang’s pride in hosting this milestone event. Emphasizing the relevance of the conference theme—“A New Era of Digital AI Technology in Medicine and Dentistry”—he spoke on the transformative role of innovation in healthcare.

Opening remarks were also delivered by YB Sivakumar Varatharaju (MYCEB Chairman) and Adj. Prof. Dato’ Dr. How Kim Chuan (Organizing Chairman). The ceremony concluded with a digital ribbon-cutting, together joined by distinguished leaders including Dr. Ian Doyle (President of ICD), Dr. Fauziah Ahmad (Director of Oral Health Malaysia), Prof. John Ling (Registrar of ICDXV), Prof. Mohd Ibrahim (Regent of ICDXV Reg. 33), Prof. Mas Suryalis (President of MDA), Dr. TC Phua, Prof. Chen Jiang, Prof. Liao Hongbing, Dr. Ou Ru Yao, and Dr. Tuti Ningseh—marking the official start of the conference and trade exhibition.and a visit to the Trade & Exhibition area.

Throughout the day, parallel lecture sessions in other ballrooms featured an impressive range of topics at the intersection of dentistry and technology:

Ballroom 1

Dr. Hiroshi Samoto (Japan) discussed Early Childhood Malocclusion Correction, highlighting early intervention protocols and clinical strategies for pediatric orthodontics.

Ballroom 4

Dr. Steven Lee (Taiwan) presented on the 5D Innovation Osteogenesis Model and Safe Digital Implant Placement, emphasizing the integration of multidimensional data in planning and executing safer, more predictable implant procedures through digital innovation.

Function Room 8

Simultaneously, the Women Dentist Leaders Forum, led by Dr. Gan Baoxia (China), created a platform for empowering female professionals in dentistry. Topics included leadership pathways, mentorship for young dentists, and gender equity in oral healthcare systems.

Function Room 6

The day continued with Part 1 of the Research Poster Competition, which offered emerging scholars and clinicians a chance to present their research to an international audience. The session was well-attended, with evaluators and delegates exchanging constructive feedback and fostering future collaborations.

Overview of Activities – Day 2 (19 April 2025)

A key highlight of the day was the International College of Dentists (ICD) Induction Ceremony.

Scientific lecture sessions continue in the second day, featuring wide range of topics at the intersection of dentistry and technology:

Ballroom 1

Invisalign Forum by Dr. Carlos Augusto (Macau) presented on the Future of Digital Dentistry, emphasizing advanced treatment protocols, digital workflow solutions, and educational opportunities in orthodontics

Function Room 6

Masterclass by Dr. Shuhei Fujita (Japan) on “Suction Dentures Made Simple.”. The session focused on three core areas: key clinical considerations, essential laboratory techniques, and critical impression protocols.

Function Room 8World Public Health Leaders Forum, led by Professor Dr. C.H. Chu. The forum emphasizing the need for community-based prevention and equitable access, the forum explored strategies to integrate oral health into national healthcare policies.

Function Room 5

The International Speakers Competition, where emerging voices in the profession presented future-facing ideas, demonstrating both academic excellence and clinical foresight.

Across each session, themes of digital transformation, AI innovation, and responsible leadership were prominent, reinforcing the conference’s commitment to shaping the next era of dentistry. Day 2 concluded with high energy, setting the stage for the final day of insight and celebration.

The Gala Dinner on the evening of Day 2 was a grand celebration of fellowship, appreciation, and cross-cultural exchange, held in Ballroom 3 of the Setia SPICE Convention Centre.

The evening began with guest arrivals and a welcoming reception, followed by the grand entrance of YB Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Penang State EXCO for Youth, Sports & Health, who delivered the keynote address alongside Adj. Prof. Dato’ Dr. How Kim Chuan and Dr. Ian Doyle, President of ICD Global.

Tuxedo-clad, YB Daniel Gooi giving the keynote speech.

Guests enjoyed a fine dining experience complemented by classical and jazz music, artistic performances including 东方旗袍, and a vibrant cultural showcase by PCEB. The evening also featured the Awards & Recognition Ceremony, honoring speakers, panelists, facilitators, volunteers, and sponsors for their contributions.

东方旗袍 performance by Chiina Women Dentists

Dr. Firdaus Hanapiah (Malaysia) receiving the Speakers Certificate of Appreciation

A key highlight was the MoU Signing and Token Exchange Ceremony with prominent international dental organizations, reinforcing strategic partnerships across Asia.

MOU Signing with JP Dr. Lawerence Lam, President of Hong Kong Chinese Dentists Association (HKCDA) President

The night concluded with sponsor appreciations, Best Dressed Awards, and a networking session, leaving attendees with lasting memories of camaraderie and celebration.

Overview of Activities – Day 3 (20 April 2025)

The day began with the World Stomatological Institute (WSI) Conferment Ceremony,

Opening speeches by Adjunct Professor Dato’ Dr. How Kim Chuan, President of WSI, who reflected on the institute’s role in shaping the future of interdisciplinary oral health globally.

This was followed by a keynote speech from YB Wong, who praised the collaborative spirit of WSI and highlighted Penang and Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to healthcare innovation and global engagement.

The ceremony honored a distinguished group of professionals across multiple categories.

Each inductee was welcomed into the WSI family, with recognitions celebrating achievements in clinical excellence, academic contribution, leadership in public service, and innovation in oral healthcare systems.

The event ended with an official photography session, capturing moments of celebration and unity among inductees, council members, and distinguished guests.

The WSI Conferment Ceremony marked a dignified and aspirational finale to the academic proceedings of Day 3, embodying the values of excellence, unity, and service that the organisation upholds.

Final parallel scientific lecture sessions continue at the same time:

Balllroom 2

Dr. Tan Ee Hong (Malaysia) presented on “Harnessing Data and Digital Technologies for Oral Healthcare in Malaysia: The Ministry of Health’s Perspectives.” Emphasizing on actionable frameworks for enhancing patient care accessibility, diagnostics, and policy-driven innovation—placing Malaysia at the forefront of digital oral healthcare.

Ballroom 4

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khairul Bariah (Malaysia), presented on “Advancements in 3D Imaging for Craniofacial Deformity in Maxillofacial Surgery: A Malaysian Perspective” underscored the growing role of 3D imaging in enhancing surgical precision, setting a strong foundation for the next generation of maxillofacial care in the region.

The Closing Ceremony marked a meaningful conclusion to three days of impactful dialogue, innovation, and international fellowship.

Special appreciation was extended to the volunteers, university partners, sponsors, and supporting organizations whose contributions were instrumental in delivering a world-class conference.

Student Volunteer, Alia Nasuha (PIDC) receiving Certificate of Appreciation

Closing remarks were delivered by key representatives of the organizing committees, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, supporting institutions, and partners.

As the event drew to a close, the organizing committee was applauded not only for the seamless delivery of the program but for fostering an environment of unity, innovation, and global collaboration.

The ceremony concluded with a sense of pride and gratitude.