By Sia Ching Hui
On 16th May 2009, 10 members from the 60th EXCO were invited to attend the SMA 50th Anniversary Dinner held at the Fullerton Hotel. Mr Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore, was the Guest-of-Honour for the event.
In his speech, he mentioned the role of a medical student. The medical student has to be concerned not only with the ardous task of equipping himself with medical knowledge, but must also know how to handle stressful conditions and most importantly have a "deep sense of humanity and compassion". He mentioned that medical education has changed dramatically. Whereas cadaveric dissection was a staple feature in the old days, it was now being replaced by computer simulation with a virtual scalpel being used to dissect a virtual cadaver. Much of the emotions regarding life, mortality and compassion have been lost through the change. Students have to adapt and learn about the "human and emotional aspects of doctoring... in other ways".
To conclude, PM Lee expressed confidence that the medical profession would "continue to nuture morally upright doctors, who are committed to their patients and selfless in serving the public interest". That was his call to all medical students, one which we must do our best to uphold.
Second Row: Darius, Joshua, Yan Tong, Angie, Yee Onn, Ying Liang
The full speech by the Prime Minister published in The Straits Times can be found at the following address:
