A contribution by our Individual Member Mohd Nazri Mohd Daud from Malaysia

The International Borneo Conference on Addiction and Mental Health (IBCAMH) 2025 took place from 10 to 12 October at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS). The theme was “Unresolved Addiction and Mental Health Challenges: A Multidisciplinary Framework Integrating Policy, Evidence-Based Practices, and Clinical Implementation.” Nearly 150 delegates from Malaysia and other countries attended, showing a strong commitment to improving mental health and addiction services through collaboration and innovation.

The conference aimed to connect different disciplines, countries, and sectors, from research to clinical practice. Over three days, participants took part in:

• 8 plenary talks by experts in addiction science and mental health policy
• 24 symposiums on topics such as neurobiology, substance and behavioural addiction and community-based interventions
• 1 wellness forum focused on holistic care for both practitioners and patients
• Oral and poster presentations featuring new research and community efforts

The event was officially launched by the Dean of FMHS, Datuk Dr Mohd Yusof bin Hj Ibrahim, represented by Deputy Dean of Academic, Dr. Mohammad Firdaus bin Bolong @ Mohd Darwis. Their presence highlighted the faculty’s strong support for interdisciplinary and regional leadership in this field.

On behalf of the Conference Chairman, Associate Professor Dr Mohd Nazri bin Mohd Daud, sincere thanks are extended to all who contributed to the success of the event: international and local speakers, special guests, delegates, sponsors, volunteers, faculty staff, and every individual involved. Special appreciation goes to the co-organisers: MEGA (Malaysia Expert Guidance Association on Addiction), University Malaya Centre for Addiction Science (UMCAS), and Insaf Murni, as well as to the Sabah State Health Department (JKNS) for their vital support.
The organisers look forward to future collaborations and to welcoming everyone again in the next edition of the International Borneo Conference.