Dear colleagues

I am deeply honoured to be the incoming President of the Singapore Society of Anaesthesiologists. It has been an unprecedented past two years and as we emerge from the pandemic, it is timely to take stock and focus our attention for the future.

Anaesthesiologists, locally and worldwide have demonstrated unity, ingenuity and worked tirelessly in combating the challenging circumstances of COVID-19. We must continue to hold on to these shared values of inclusivity and collaboration to build a stronger sense of community among all the local anaesthesiologists. The Society will also continue to reach out to new members, new partners and explore new opportunities to broaden our horizons and ensure we continue to thrive.

The Society is focused on developing highly educational programs and resources with broad based refresher courses as well as focused group programs. The highlight for us in the next two years is to be the proud hosts of the 18th World Congress of Anaesthesiology (WCA) taking place on home ground from the 3-7 March 2024. I would like to thank Professor Chan Yew Weng and his team for bringing this landmark event to our shores. The WCA will see delegates from all across the globe and will be held in person. There will be ample opportunities for learning, training, networking and vigorous exchange of ideas and experience. We look forward to enthusiastic support from our local anaesthesiology community for this event.

I am grateful to all members for your continued participation and support and I look forward to working with all of you to ensure our society continues to grow from strength to strength. I would especially like to thank the Immediate Past President, Dr Chong Chin Ted and his team for superbly navigating the treacherous past two years of the pandemic and bringing the society forward.

“Together we can” is the theme for WCA 2024 and it is a fitting motto for us at the SSA as well.

Thank you and wishing everyone a safe and healthy year ahead.

A/Prof Sophia Chew
President Singapore Society of Anaesthesiologists