Speech by the Elected President for Tenure of 2021-2023 during AGM:
Distinguished members of our esteemed association, ladies and gentlemen! Today, as we gather here for our Annual General Meeting and election of the next board of committee members for the term of 2023-2025, I stand before you with a deep sense of gratitude and admiration. It’s my honor to serve as the President of MDIA for the term of 2021-2023, and I am truly humbled by the unwavering support and dedication each and every one of you has shown during these challenging years.
In the dental industry, we have faced numerous obstacles that tested our resilience. The rising costs of operations and the volatility of the USD exchange rate, regulatory enforcement issues have posed significant challenges to our industry. Fortunately, the dental industry has remained a positive growth market in Malaysia.
As I prepare to step down from my role as President after this term if elected, I am committed to ensuring continuity within our association. A well-structured succession plan is already in place to facilitate a smooth transition of leadership. We will actively seek new and young individuals who are dedicated to our cause to join the committee. To ensure a committed team is onboard, we have introduced a committee requirement wish list, carefully selecting individuals who embody our values and mission. Off course, all ordinary members are free to contest as per constitution but we will remind them the commitment required.
Furthermore, we are determined to strengthen our relationship with key government agencies. By working closely with them, we can address regulatory concerns more effectively and advocate for the needs of our industry. To guide our efforts, we will continue to implement from the strategic plan that in line with our 7 objectives in our constitution that will shape the future of our association and the dental industry as a whole.
Recognizing the importance of support, we are committed to building a strong secretariat and event show manager who will provide the necessary assistance and expertise to facilitate our endeavors. Our flagship event, the MIDS show, will be safeguarded to ensure its success and impact on the industry.
However, above all else, our most important objective is to make each and every one of us proud to be a part of the dental industry. Together, we have the power to shape the future of dental industry. I encourage all active members to join our sub or working committees, where you can contribute your skills and knowledge to specific projects and tasks that will help us advance our mission.
Lastly, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that leadership is not without its challenges, and mistakes may have been made along the way. If, during my term or in any capacity, I or my committee members have unintentionally neglected or made any mistakes, I humbly seek your forgiveness. Leading this association has been both an honor and a privilege, and I am truly grateful for your unwavering support and understanding.
Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, to grow our association and further elevate the dental industry. Together, we can overcome any challenges that lie ahead and continue to support our dental professionals and patients in order to enjoy the highest quality dental care. Thank you, once again, for your trust and commitment.
May we forge ahead towards a brighter future.
Thank you.
Desmond Chong Yoong Fatt
President
Malaysia Dental Industry Association (MDIA)
31 July 2021