Physiotherapy White Coat Ceremony 2024

Seated, from left: Cik Siti, Prof Thong, Mr Hidayat, Mr Mohd Zulfikri and Dr Cameron

The White Coat Ceremony for UTAR Bachelor of Physiotherapy students was held on 23 February 2024 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. Organised by UTAR M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (MK FMHS), the ceremony was held to celebrate the significant milestone of the students’ official transition to the professional medical world.

Present at the ceremony were Sunway Medical Centre Head of Physiotherapy Department Mr Muhammad Hidayat Shafie, UTAR MK FMHS Dean Prof Dr Thong Meow Keong, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Department of Neurology academic Assoc Prof Dr Michelle H. Cameron, MK FMHS Head of Department of Physiotherapy Mr Muhammad Noh Zulfikri Mohd Jamali and MK FMHS Head of Clinical Physiotherapy Programme Ms Siti Hazirah binti Samsuri.

The ceremony began with a speech by Prof Thong. He said, “Remember, just as a diamond shines brightest under pressure and heat, so too do we flourish when faced with challenges and adversity. Embrace the stress you encounter, for it is the catalyst for your growth and brilliance. Draw strength from your past successes as you navigate the path ahead, knowing that you possess the resilience to overcome any obstacle. So, I’m just going to end here by saying that physiotherapy is not just about treating the symptoms but it is about restoring hope, restoring health, and improving quality of life for everyone.”

Prof Thong delivering his speech

Mr Hidayat shared his experience, saying, “My 16-year journey in physiotherapy reflects a commitment to making a tangible impact in patients’ lives. From post-surgery recovery to chronic pain management, every day brings new opportunities to witness resilience and inspire healing. Serving patients remains a profound privilege, shaping my vision for this noble profession.” He advised, “Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, knowing that each encounter is a chance to make a difference, both for yourself and in the lives of others.”

Mr Hidayat advising students to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow

The ceremony climaxed with the presentation of white coats to the Physiotherapy students, symbolising their entry into the medical profession. Class Representative, Ng Sin Ru, led the recital of the Oath of Commitment, marking their dedication to their patients’ well-being.

Following the oath recital session were captivating singing performances by MK FMHS students, namely Jane Chong, Samson Mong, Sebastian Low and Shawn Liu. The event concluded with a group photograph session, commemorating the milestone moment.

Students receiving their white coats

Ng leading the oath recital

Students reciting the oath

Singing performances by MK FMHS students

Students savouring the moment and basking in the joy of their accomplishments

Background:

The White Coat Ceremony originated from the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine in 1989. It was fully established at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1993 by Dr Arnold P. Gold. The ceremony signifies the transition from preclinical to clinical health sciences. At UTAR, this tradition is integral, held annually since the programme's inception in 2011. It marks a pivotal moment for the Physiotherapy students as they don the white coat, embodying their commitment to the profession as they start their clinical journey.