President’s Message – 2026
Dear Members, Colleagues, and Friends,
It is both an honour and a privilege to address you as the new President of the Malaysian Society for Surgery of the Hand (MSSH) for 2026. Since our founding in 1993, MSSH has grown from humble beginnings—rooted in the leprosarium of Sungai Buloh—into a society that now stands proudly on the regional and international stage. Today, we carry forward that legacy of excellence under our motto: “Excellence through Hand Surgery”.
A New Era: Hand Surgery in the Age of AI
We live in a world without borders—a world increasingly shaped by technology. As we step into 2026, we must ask ourselves: how will artificial intelligence transform the art and science of hand surgery? AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it is here, and it is reshaping how we diagnose, plan surgeries, and rehabilitate our patients. From predictive analytics in trauma outcomes to AI-assisted imaging for microsurgical planning, these tools offer unprecedented opportunities to enhance precision and patient care.
But let us be clear: technology serves the surgeon, not the other way around. The human touch—the surgeon’s judgment, the therapist’s empathy, the patient’s trust—remains irreplaceable. AI will augment our capabilities, not replace our humanity. As a society, we must embrace these innovations while staying grounded in the principles that have always defined us: meticulous craftsmanship, lifelong learning, and compassionate care.
The Hand is an Organ
Our core message remains as vital today as ever: the Hand is an Organ. Saving the upper limb is saving a patient’s livelihood. We must continue to champion this awareness—not only among the public but also among our colleagues in non-hand specialties, therapists, and paramedics. The “Hand Team” is stronger when every member understands the profound impact of hand injuries and diseases on a person’s life and work.
Building Bridges, Breaking Boundaries
In this interconnected world, collaboration is key. Our partnerships with the APFSSH and IFSSH, have been invaluable, and we look forward to deepening these ties. Closer to home, our sister society, the Malaysian Society for Hand Therapy (MSHT), remains an indispensable partner in our shared mission. Together, we will continue to host joint roadshows, workshops, and conferences that bring together surgeons, therapists, and allied health professionals.
We also reaffirm our commitment to our ASEAN neighbours. Knowledge shared is knowledge multiplied. By learning from one another’s experiences and innovations, we can collectively raise the standard of hand care across the region.
A Call to Action
To our young surgeons, therapists, and paramedics: the future of hand surgery in Malaysia rests with you. I encourage you to seek fellowship, mentorship, embrace new technologies, and never stop asking questions. To our senior members: your wisdom and guidance are the pillars upon which our society stands. Let us continue to nurture the next generation with the same generosity we received from our own teachers.
Looking Ahead
2026 promises to be a year of growth, learning, and innovation. We have exciting programmes lined up—including scientific meetings, circle meetings, simulation-based training. I invite every member to play an active role in shaping the future of our society.
May all our efforts mark meaningful milestones in the development of the art and science of surgery of the hand.
Thank you, and God bless.
DR JEREMY PRAKASH SILVANATHAN
President
Malaysian Society for Surgery of the Hand (MSSH)