The 16th Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Conference (APHC) convened from April 23 to 26, 2025, at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), Sarawak, Malaysia. Under the resonant theme “Embracing Diversity, Empowering Communities,” the event brought together over 1,200 delegates from more than 30 countries, making it one of the largest gatherings of palliative care professionals in the region.
A Powerful Start: Pre-Conference Workshops
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:
- Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Research Forum 2025
- Empowering Palliative Care Nurse Leaders: Building Skills for Impact and Innovation
- Mandarin Hospice Summit: Addressing Challenges in Palliative Care Implementation (conducted entirely in Mandarin)
In addition, five half-day workshops tackled key challenges in the field:
- Serious Illness Conversations
- Managing Transitions of Care (Community & Primary Palliative Care)
- Collective Impact for Upstreaming Palliative Care in the Asia Pacific Region
- Enhancing Communication in Paediatric Palliative Care
- Strengthening the Continuum of End-of-Life Care: Practical Application of the ICEST Model
These sessions offered participants practical skills, innovative frameworks, and regionally relevant solutions.
Day 1: Landmark Launches and Cultural Celebration
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 Sarawak Statement—a declaration from the international palliative care community on the urgent need to respond to humanitarian crises 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:
- The APHN Atlas of Palliative Care in Asia-Pacific Regions, presented by Prof. Carlos Centeno of the ATLANTES Global Observatory of Palliative Care, to support advocacy efforts and strengthen service coverage in the region.
- The Sarawak Task Force Palliative Care Committee, led by Sarawak State Health Director Dr. Veronica Lugah, to improve strategic coordination and access to care across urban and remote communities.
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.
Day 2: Deepening Engagement
On 25 April, the conference was anchored by the Hinohara Memorial Lecture, 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 Annual General Meeting of APHN and culminated in a joyous Gala Dinner with the theme “Symphony of Cultures.” A dazzling performance of Tarian Keris 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 temporary tattoos, 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.
Day 3: Awards, Reflection, and Looking Ahead
The final day on 26 April was marked by recognition, reflection, and hope.
- The Cynthia Goh Award was presented by Prof. Goh Hak Su to Ms. Liese Groot-Alberts in honour of her lifelong dedication and impact on palliative care worldwide.
- Two thought-provoking plenaries addressed Humanitarian Crises and the Social Determinants of Health, encouraging attendees to think beyond the clinic and engage with the broader systems affecting patient care.
- Awards were presented for Best Posters, showcasing cutting-edge research and innovation.
At the Closing Ceremony, 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.
Thank You
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 APHC 2027 in Australia!
Written by Ms Trudy Giam (APHN )