In an illuminating discussion on August 14, 2024, Megan Webber, Co-Founder of KnowTheGlow (KTG), and Dr. Miswan Muiz Mahyudin, an esteemed ophthalmologist from Malaysia, explored the challenges and opportunities in pediatric ophthalmology and vision care in Malaysia. The meeting brought to light the significant work being done in the region, as well as the hurdles that need to be overcome to improve children’s eye health.
Dr. Muiz, who is a Cataract and Refractive Surgeon at Optimax Eye Specialist Center, also serves as the president of the Malaysian Society of Ophthalmology (MSO) and vice-president of the ASEAN Ophthalmology Society (AOS) . His experience and leadership have positioned him as a key figure in addressing the challenges of pediatric ophthalmology in Malaysia.
One of the key topics discussed was the importance of early vision screening, particularly for children aged 0-5. In Malaysia, the practice of red reflex screening in newborns is implemented, but concerns remain about its effectiveness and the current referral system. The conversation underscored the need for a more robust national plan for pediatric vision care, one that would integrate the roles of school nurses, the Ministry of Education, and healthcare providers to ensure early detection and treatment of eye conditions like leukocoria, a glow in the eye that can be a sign of serious conditions like retinoblastoma.
The conversation also delved into the broader public health challenges in Malaysia, where pediatric vision issues often take a back seat to more pressing concerns like diabetes and hypertension. Dr. Muiz highlighted the difficulties in prioritizing eye health within this context, especially in rural areas where access to care is limited.
A potential solution discussed was the introduction of the ArcLight device, a pocket-sized ophthalmoscope that could revolutionize field screening and community health initiatives by making eye examinations more accessible. Another innovative approach mentioned was the use of ready-made myopia spectacles as a temporary solution for children in remote areas, ensuring they have some level of vision correction until they can receive proper prescriptions.
Awareness and education emerged as crucial elements in improving eye care in Malaysia. Dr. Muiz and Megan discussed the importance of educating the public and healthcare providers about eye health, using multiple languages (Malay, English, Chinese) to ensure the message reaches all communities. They also explored the potential for collaboration with opticians to enhance early detection of eye issues and to use posters and training sessions as tools for spreading awareness.
The meeting concluded with discussions on future collaboration opportunities, including connecting with ophthalmologists in Southeast Asia to strengthen regional efforts in pediatric eye care. Dr. Muiz shared his personal journey into medicine, which began with a consideration of engineering but ultimately led to a rewarding career in ophthalmology, underscoring the hands-on practice and the life-changing outcomes for patients.
Plans were also made to further explore collaboration with KTG and other organizations in the region, particularly in organizing awareness campaigns and future global vision events in Kuala Lumpur. Dr. Muiz is set to attend the World Ophthalmology Congress in Vancouver, where he will continue to represent Malaysia and its work in blindness prevention.
As World Sight Day approaches, the conversation highlighted the need for continued efforts to improve children’s eye health in Malaysia, with plans for a pilot program for eye screening in Kuala Terengganu and the development of educational materials to support these initiatives. The collaboration between KTG and Dr. Muiz holds great promise for advancing pediatric vision care in Malaysia and beyond, paving the way for a brighter future for children’s eye health in the region.
