UTAR White Coat Ceremony honours the next generation of medical professionals

On 18 November 2025, UTAR marked a significant milestone in medical education with the MBBS White Coat Ceremony held at its Sungai Long Campus. The ceremony celebrated the transition of medical students from foundational studies into clinical training, bringing together 39 Year Two students and witnessed by 42 Year 1 students. Parents of the Year Two cohort were also invited to witness the occasion, with total attendance reaching approximately 180 participants, including academic staff and invited guests.

The ceremony was graced by Prof Dr Chan Kok Gan from the Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, who attended as the sole chief guest. His presence added distinction to the event and highlighted the shared commitment of academic and medical communities in shaping future healthcare professionals.

Also present were senior members of the M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (MK FMHS), led by Prof Dr Thong Meow Keong, Dean of MK FMHS. The faculty members in attendance included Assoc Prof Dr Ong Hooi Tin, Head of the Department of Pre-clinical Sciences; Dr Shwe Sin; Prof Dr N. Veera Sekaran; Prof Dr Lam Sau Kuen; Assoc Prof Ts Dr Lee Siew Keah, Head of Programme for Postgraduate Programmes (Medical Sciences); Dr K. Amardev Singh Thanu; Dr Avneet Kaur; Dr Chin Zhen Hua; Dr Amy Saik Yi Hsan, Chairperson of the Centre for Stem Cell Research; Mr Gan Quan Fu; Dr Hnin Pwint Phyu; Prof Dr John Paul Evangel Judson; and Dr Teoh Hoon Koon, Chairperson of the Centre for Cancer Research.

Prof Thong delivering his speech

In his address, Prof Thong congratulated the students on successfully passing their first professional examination and described the white coat as a powerful symbol of professionalism, integrity, and trust. He emphasised that the ceremony marked not only academic progression but also the students’ readiness to uphold ethical standards and responsibilities as they embark on their clinical journey.

Prof Chan sharing insights with the students

Prof Chan shared a deeply personal reflection drawn from his experiences as both a scientist and a former patient. He spoke about the historical evolution of the white coat and its modern significance as an emblem of professionalism and ethical practice. Through his own story of illness and recovery, he reminded the students of the profound impact doctors can have on their patients’ lives, noting that while healing reflects competence, curing and transforming lives defines greatness in medicine.

Speaking on behalf of the cohort, former class representative Chloe Sim Yu Xi reflected on the students’ journey through their first year of medical school. She spoke about the early aspirations that drew them to medicine, the challenges of adapting to its academic demands, and the resilience developed through shared experiences. She reminded her peers that the white coat represents responsibility and compassion, and encouraged them to approach their clinical years with perseverance, humility, and purpose. She also expressed gratitude to the faculty for their dedication and guidance.

Oath of commitment led by Hii San Wei, class representative of Year Two cohort

A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of white coats to the students, symbolising their formal entry into clinical training. This was followed by the recital of the Oath of Commitment, reaffirming their dedication to ethical medical practice. The ceremony was further enlivened by performances and a student-produced video by the Year Two cohort, before concluding with a group photography session that captured the pride and joy of students, families, and faculty members.

The MBBS White Coat Ceremony continues to be a meaningful tradition at UTAR, reflecting the University’s commitment to excellence in medical education. For the 2025 cohort, the ceremony marked the beginning of a demanding yet rewarding journey guided by knowledge, compassion, and professional integrity.