The 30th Congress of the Japanese Society for Palliative Medicine (JSPM), held in July 2025, marked a significant milestone—not only for Japan’s palliative care community but also for the Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Network (APHN). With over 7,000 participants in attendance, this landmark congress brought together clinicians, researchers, educators, and policymakers in a powerful demonstration of collective commitment to alleviating suffering and advancing palliative care.
The Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Network (APHN) was honoured to be invited to participate in this milestone event. The invitation served as a meaningful opportunity to rekindle deep-rooted sector engagement with Japan—one of APHN’s founding sectors since its establishment in 2001.
Opening Reception: A Message of Reconnection and Invitation
The Congress was officially welcomed by Professor Keiko Tamura, President of the 30th JSPM Congress.
During the opening reception, Mr. Giam Cheong Leong, Executive Director of APHN, delivered an address to participants. In his speech, Mr. Giam encouraged Japanese palliative care professionals and institutions to reconnect with the regional network and become active members in shaping the future of palliative care across Asia. He highlighted Japan’s historical contributions to APHN and called for renewed collaboration through membership, education, research, and leadership development initiatives.
Day 1: Member Engagement and Visibility
The first day of the congress featured strong member engagement activities. The APHN booth was set up next to the JSPM membership counter, serving as a visible and symbolic representation of partnership. It offered participants a chance to learn more about APHN’s activities, programmes, and membership benefits, including scholarships, webinars, and opportunities for international collaboration. The booth attracted attention from seasoned professionals and emerging leaders alike.
Day 2: JSPM-APHN English Track – Connecting Asia
On the second day, APHN co-hosted a special English Track session titled “Connecting Asia: Advancing Palliative Care through Collaboration and Learning.” The session served as a platform to showcase regional cooperation and learning.
- Prof. Yoshiyuki Kizawa opened the session by introducing APHN and its mission to promote access to quality palliative care across Asia Pacific.
- Dr. Hideyuki Kashiwagi and Dr. Sayaka Takenouchi shared their impactful experiences as trainers in the Lien Collaborative for Palliative Care programme in Bhutan, where they helped conduct a Master Trainer course. Their presentations illustrated how Japanese leadership can make a difference beyond borders.
- Mr. Giam introduced the Cynthia Goh Palliative Care Fellowship, an APHN initiative co-developed with the Lien Foundation to cultivate emerging leaders in the region. He urged Japanese professionals to apply and bring their expertise to countries in need, echoing the spirit of regional fraternity and shared growth.
Looking Forward
APHN congratulates JSPM on successfully hosting its 30th Congress and celebrates the tremendous energy and commitment displayed throughout the event. The congress reaffirmed the importance of cross-border solidarity, leadership development, and academic exchange in advancing palliative care in the Asia Pacific region.
As we look ahead, APHN remains committed to supporting Japan’s continued involvement and leadership in regional palliative care. We invite more Japanese professionals and institutions to join us as members, fellows, trainers, and collaborators—because together, we can build a more compassionate and connected future for all those in need of palliative care.
Written by Mr Giam Cheong Leong (APHN Executive Director )