The World Arthritis Day 2025 – Public Forum, organised by the Arthritis Foundation Malaysia (AFM), was successfully held on 4 October 2025 at PARC @ Taman Subang Ria, Subang Jaya, Selangor.
The forum commenced with a welcome address by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fariz Yahya, President of AFM.
His opening remarks set the tone for a meaningful day of learning, reflection, and community support—highlighting AFM’s ongoing mission to promote awareness, education, and care for arthritis.
Expert Talks
Understanding Arthritis – Symptoms and Causes
Speaker: Dr. Ainon Mokhtar
This session offers a clear overview of the various types of arthritis, their early signs and symptoms, and why timely diagnosis is essential to better outcomes.
Arthritis in Children – Early Detection
Speaker: Dr. La Reina – Focusing on Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), Dr. La Reina explores how early identification and intervention can change the trajectory of arthritis in children.
Q&A Session – An interactive platform for the audience to engage directly with the experts, ask questions, and gain clarity on medical topics discussed.
Tea Break – A short intermission for light refreshments and networking.
Latest Advances in Arthritis Management and Treatment by Dr. Benjamin Cheah – Dr. Cheah shared the latest innovations in arthritis care — from biologics to emerging therapies — aimed at improving long-term outcomes and quality of life.
A second opportunity for attendees to interact with experts and discuss new treatment options and strategies.
Patient Sharing Session
Theme: Living with Arthritis – My Journey
Moderator: Pn Chan Li Jin
Patient Speakers: Mr JC Lee – Ankylosing Spondylitis & Ms. Amy Lee – Rheumatoid Arthritis – In this heartfelt segment, patients share their personal journeys — highlighting the strength, challenges, and triumphs of living with arthritis.
Interactive Therapy Sessions by Physio Plus & Team – Exercises to Keep You Moving.
A guided demonstration of simple, safe exercises to manage stiffness, improve mobility, and maintain joint health.
Session with Occupational Therapist by Pn. Atiqah Salima – Topic: Assistive Devices for Arthritis .This session introduces helpful tools, aids, and adaptive strategies that empower patients to remain independent in their daily routines.
We had an engaging clog painting activity for both adults and children, where participants expressed their creativity by decorating traditional wooden clogs with vibrant colours and unique designs.
Closing Ceremony
The forum concludes with closing remarks, group photo session, & 30th anniversary cake-cutting ceremony. A celebration of three decades of AFM’s dedication to supporting arthritis patients and advancing care in Malaysia. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all speakers, guests, volunteers, and participants for making this event a success. Together, we move forward—raising awareness, fostering support, and building a future of hope and strength for those living with arthritis.