The 15th Conjoint Ophthalmology Scientific Conference (COSC 2026) was successfully held from 18th to 20th September 2026 at Nexus, Connexion Conference & Event Centre (CCEC), Kuala Lumpur, organised by Universiti Malaya (UM). With the theme “From Basics to Breakthroughs: Foundations in Eye Care and Frontiers in Ocular Oncology,” the conference focused on strengthening fundamental ophthalmic knowledge while showcasing contemporary developments and emerging advances in eye care and ocular oncology. It provided a valuable platform for scientific exchange, professional development, research dissemination and networking among ophthalmologists, trainees, researchers, healthcare professionals,invited faculty and industry partners.
COSC 2026 attracted 414 delegates, 93 faculty members and 166 exhibitors, reflecting strong engagement from the ophthalmology and healthcare community. The three-day programme featured scientific and clinical presentations, discussions on current advances in ophthalmology and ocular oncology, research presentations, interactive sessions and practical learning activities. The exhibition further complemented the scientific programme by providing opportunities for delegates to explore the latest ophthalmic technologies, equipment and services and engage with industry representatives.
A major strength of COSC 2026 was its emphasis on hands-on and interactive learning. Highlights included the Cornea and Lid Suturing Wet Lab, which allowed participants to develop and refine essential suturing and microsurgical skills, and the UBM Workshop conducted by Prof. Mario, which provided practical exposure to the application and interpretation of ultrasound biomicroscopy. A dedicated Investigational Workshop for Master’s trainees further supported postgraduate development by strengthening clinical reasoning and approaches to ophthalmic investigations.
Some of the many faces in the pre-congress workshops
Snippets from conferences day 1 and 2
The conference also featured several important academic and competitive activities. The Annual Postgraduate Intervarsity Quiz brought together postgraduate ophthalmology trainees from various institutions, with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) emerging as the winner. In a new milestone for COSC, the first-ever Undergraduate Intervarsity Quiz was introduced, providing medical undergraduates with an opportunity to demonstrate their ophthalmology knowledge and engage with peers from other universities. RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus emerged as the inaugural winner.
Another significant highlight was the presentation of the Marahakim Award to Prof. Choo May May, recognising her contribution and achievements in ophthalmology. Overall, COSC 2026 successfully combined scientific education, clinical updates, practical skills training, research, postgraduate and undergraduate engagement, networking and professional recognition. The conference strengthened knowledge-sharing and collaboration across institutions while providing valuable opportunities for professional and academic development. The strong participation of delegates, faculty and exhibitors, together with the diverse educational activities, contributed to a vibrant and meaningful three-day meeting.
In conclusion, COSC 2026 was a successful and impactful scientific conference that brought together the foundations of eye care with contemporary advances and emerging frontiers in ophthalmology. The collaborative efforts of UM, UKM, USM and UIA, together with the participation of faculty, delegates, trainees, researchers and industry partners, contributed to a conference that promoted learning, innovation, research, professional development and collaboration within the ophthalmology community.
For more photos, please click the link to access the event gallery.
Written by,
Dr Lim Yi Wen
Last Update: 30/09/2026