Beyond the Operating Theatre: My Ipoh Adventure

I arrived in Ipoh on 4 October 2026 to attend the 15th EPO Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Workshop, starting with my first KTM train journey from KL Sentral to Ipoh!

Yes, my first time!

I enjoyed sitting back, watching the scenery pass by, and taking a welcome break from the usual pace of everyday life. Travelling with a fractured arm wasn’t exactly convenient, but I was determined not to let the injury keep me from attending the workshop or enjoying the experience. Little did I know that the trip would offer much more than a professional workshop.

A Little Slice of Bali… in Ipoh!

One unexpected highlight was discovering the beautiful Ipoh Bali Hotel. This charming boutique hotel made me feel as though I had been transported to Bali without leaving Ipoh. Its peaceful Balinese-inspired surroundings, thoughtful details, and welcoming staff made the stay memorable.

A lovely Balinese breakfast completed the experience, and I couldn’t resist treating myself to a foot massage. With a fractured arm, the rest of me deserved a little pampering!

Travelling with a fractured arm brought its own challenges, beginning with deciding what to pack. I had to choose clothes that were easy to put on and remove, allow extra time to get dressed, and learn to eat with my left hand. Tasks I had always taken for granted, such as opening a water bottle, suddenly required patience and creativity.

I also found it frustrating to watch others dissect during the workshop. As a surgeon, I am used to participating actively, so sitting back and observing was difficult.

But it taught me patience and, more importantly, to ask for help.

I am used to caring for others and being independent, so needing assistance felt uncomfortable and humbling. Gradually, however, I realised that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It allows others to support us, just as we support them when they need us.

The injury reminded me that life does not always follow our plans. Sometimes we must accept our limitations, adapt, and keep going at a different pace.

I approached the trip with my recovery in mind, but that did not stop me from learning, connecting with others, and enjoying the experience. We do not need perfect circumstances to make meaningful memories. Only the willingness to keep going and appreciate the support around us.

And I am glad I went.

Was it worth it?

Absolutely. Every bit of it.

I returned home with wonderful memories, renewed energy, and a reminder that some of the best experiences come when we step outside our usual routines, even when circumstances don’t go exactly as planned.

The surgeon in me went to Ipoh for a workshop. The curious adventurer in me travelled there with a fractured arm and came home with so much more.

Signing off,

Dr Jey