The Malaysian Endodontic Society

The Persatuan Endodontik Malaysia or the Malaysian Endodontic Society (MES) was initiated by a group of enthusiastic pioneers led by Dr Majinah Ahmad in August 1988. The rapid development in endodontics in the late 1980s through the 1990s had rendered 'traditional' endodontic concepts and techniques obsolete. There was a need for an organisation in the country to promote awareness of the evolution in endodontics and to facilitate the inflow of the latest developments in this field. The MES was therefore established with the aim to promote and advance the study and practice of pulp conservation and endodontic procedures in order to improve dental services to the public.

For a young organisation looking to 'kick-start' interest in modern endodontics in a rapidly developing country, internationally acclaimed speakers were invited to address our members. Due mention must be made of the hard work and dedication by the committee members 'on the ground' organising numerous talks and courses across the country which went a long way to promote and establish endodontics in Malaysia. The 1993 joint meeting of the MES and the Asian Pacific Endodontic Confederation (APEC) in Kuala Lumpur confirmed that the society was here to stay.

The drive to promote endodontics continued unabated. The focus group meeting, which was termed the Study Group Meeting (SGM), was started in 1996 and proved to be valuable for encouraging discussion and learning that is still going strong today. It was also the year that the Asia-Pacific region had its first look at the new frontier of 'microendodontics' as advocated by Gary Carr. There were many who were curious to see how endodontics could be performed under an operating microscope. No doubt the magnified images of the root canals amazed those present and gave them a whole new perspective on the root canal system. The impact factor created by the use of audio-visual equipment and the dental operating microscope was harnessed for several other presentations in the following years.

The Society also decided that an effort to encourage research in endodontics and instill endodontic awareness in our dental undergraduates would prove a valuable investment. To this end, essay competitions on endodontic-related topics were held for the undergraduates. Financial assistance was made available for research and postgraduate work in this field.

A successful joint meeting with the Society of Endodontists, Singapore (SES) resulted in a biennial meeting series where the two Societies alternated as hosts. The first meeting in 1998, held at Genting Highlands Malaysia, proved to be a great success and the same success was enjoyed at the subsequent meetings of 2000 and 2002. Apart from the professional aspect, it has fostered a great deal of camaraderie between members of the two Societies.

Teamwork is essential in any organisation. The MES has reached its present status today thanks to dedicated individuals who have contributed much time and effort in the executive committee. No less is the support shown by enthusiastic members for its activities. The Society extends a warm welcome to all dental surgeons who are interested to join us.