EVOLVE 2026

The Malaysian Students’ Surgical Society (MSSS) marked a significant milestone with the successful execution of its 6th Annual Symposium, EVOLVE, held on 24 January 2026. Designed as a two-day hybrid event, the symposium brought together medical students, surgical trainees, and esteemed professionals from across Malaysia in an inspiring convergence of knowledge, innovation, and hands-on learning. Conceptualised to reflect the rapidly evolving landscape of surgical training, this year’s theme embraced transformation by highlighting modern tools and forward-thinking approaches shaping the future of surgery.

A key highlight of EVOLVE 2026 was the international collaboration with VRIMS, introducing advanced Virtual Reality (VR)–based surgical training to Malaysia and marking an important step in bridging global innovation with local medical education. The symposium was further strengthened through endorsements and support from the College of Surgeons, Academy of Medicine Malaysia (CSAMM), Malaysian Orthopaedic Association (MOA), SELSMA, Malaysian Hernia Society, and the Malaysian Society of Perioperative Medicine, reflecting strong institutional backing and shared commitment towards advancing surgical education.

The first day of the symposium was conducted online, focusing on career development and interactive engagement. A major highlight was the “Surgical Launchpad” s, which provided a comprehensive breakdown of the surgical training pathway in Malaysia, offering clarity and direction to aspiring surgeons. This was followed by an insightful “Going Abroad”  which explored opportunities for surgical training beyond Malaysia. Participants also benefited from interactive breakout sessions, where they engaged directly with specialists including  allowing for meaningful discussions within their fields of interest. Additionally, delivered a timely session on “Learning Smart and Adaptation for Gen Z Medical Students,” addressing evolving learning strategies in modern medical education.

The second day, held physically at the Academy of Medicine Malaysia (AMM) in Putrajaya, focused on immersive and practical learning experiences. A major highlight was the Virtual Reality workshop on cholecystectomy conducted by the VRIMS team, where participants experienced realistic surgical simulations that enhanced both technical understanding and confidence. This was complemented by a series of forums addressing current developments in medicine, followed by MSSS’s signature hands-on workshop series, which provided exposure to essential surgical skills across multiple disciplines, further enriching the participants’ learning experience.

The symposium was graced by distinguished VIPs including Prof Dato’ Dr April, Prof Lim Kean Ghee, and Prof Liew Ngoh Chin, alongside representatives from endorsing organisations, invited speakers, and facilitators. With the participation of 200 medical students from across Malaysia, EVOLVE 2026 reflected a strong and growing interest in surgical education and innovation among future healthcare professionals.

As the organising chairperson and President of MSSS for the 2025/2026 term, it is both an honour and a privilege to have led this symposium. EVOLVE 2026 stands as a testament to the dedication, resilience, and passion of the organising committee and collaborators who brought this vision to life. As this marks the final flagship event of my presidency, it is a bittersweet moment filled with gratitude for the journey, the challenges, and the shared achievements. I leave with confidence that MSSS will continue to grow, innovate, and remain in capable hands, and I look forward to seeing future symposiums continue to inspire and elevate the next generation of surgeons.

Dr Praveena Vijaya Devan,

President MSSS 25/26,

OC EVOLVE, MSSS 6th Symposium.