APHC2025 Report: Malaysian Association of Paediatric Palliative Care (MAPPAC)

With Gratitude and Inspiration: Our Journey to APHC 2025

MAPPAC Team members at the MHPCC booth during the APHC2025 conference. Pictured here with MHPCC Chairperson, Dr. Ng Woon Fang and Hon. Secretary, Dr. Saiful Abd Latif

We are filled with gratitude to the Malaysian Hospice and Palliative Care Council for awarding us a travel grant that made it possible for our team to attend the 16th Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Conference, held in Kuala Lumpur from 23rd to 26th April 2025.

This year’s theme, “Embracing Diversity, Empowering Communities,” could not have been more relevant to our work in community paediatric palliative care. It reminded us that every voice matters, every story counts, and that care grounded in compassion, respect, and collaboration can truly transform lives.

Being part of this gathering was more than just professional development—it was a deeply moving experience. Over four rich and reflective days, we learned, connected, and were reminded why we do what we do.

Key Reflections from the Conference:

🌏 Celebrating Cultural Diversity in Care

We were inspired by how palliative care can be tailored to different cultural and spiritual contexts. Speakers reminded us that true care meets people where they are—respecting their beliefs, traditions, and stories. As we support children and families in our community, we carry forward this message of cultural humility and inclusion.

🌸 The Power of Community

Again and again, we heard how communities—especially in resource-limited settings—are the heart of sustainable palliative care. Whether through volunteers, local champions, or family caregivers, community engagement brings resilience, connection, and continuity of care. It reminded us that we are never working alone.

🤝 Teamwork That Heals

Interdisciplinary collaboration was a strong theme throughout the conference. Hearing from teams that blend medical, emotional, and spiritual support encouraged us to continue building bridges with our colleagues across professions. It is together that we can truly hold and support families through life’s most difficult journeys.

💬 Listening to Lived Experience

Perhaps the most powerful moments came from patients and our colleagues who generously shared their stories. Their courage and honesty grounded the science and policy discussions in deep human truth. Their voices continue to echo in our hearts, reminding us to keep listening and to always centre the person, not just the condition.

✨ Innovation with Heart

From creative therapies to tech-enabled care, we saw how innovation can enhance—not replace—the human touch. These ideas have sparked exciting conversations within our team about how we can adapt and grow our services to reach more families with care that is compassionate, creative, and accessible.

We returned from APHC 2025 renewed in spirit and purpose. This conference reminded us why palliative care is not just a medical service, but a movement—one built on love, dignity, and the unwavering belief that every life deserves to be lived, supported, and honoured.

To the Malaysian Hospice and Palliative Care Council, thank you for making this journey possible. Your support has empowered us to grow, connect, and bring back new energy and vision to our local work.

With heartfelt thanks,

Dr Tay Chai Li, SN Elaine Teo & Ms Seetha

From our Malaysian Children’s Hospice, Malaysian Association of Paediatric Palliative Care (MAPPAC)