Johor Bahru, 12 March 2025 – KPJ Healthcare Berhad has taken another significant step forward in its commitment to advancing patient-centric, precision surgery, with Johor Specialist Hospital (JSH) successfully performing its first robotic-assisted procedure on 8 March 2025.

The procedure using the Da Vinci Xi surgical system, was carried out by Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr. Sharifah Shahirah Syed Hashim, marking a new era of minimally invasive surgery at JSH.

This achievement, which is the first in the KPJ Healthcare’s network of hospitals in Johor, reinforces KPJ Healthcare’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge surgical technologies to enhance patient outcomes and experiences. Last year, Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 became the first in KPJ Healthcare to introduce the Da Vinci Xi surgical system. Since then, KPJ Healthcare has expanded its adoption of Artificial Intelligence (“AI”)-driven medical technologies across its 29 private hospitals nationwide, further advancing precision medicine and patient care.

President and Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare, Chin Keat Chyuan, said, “At KPJ Healthcare, guided by our Care for Life purpose, we are continuously exploring advancements in AI and innovation to elevate patient care. Together with this, the recent introduction of the KPJ Health System - now embedded as our core framework - is setting new benchmarks in private healthcare. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure patients benefit from these advancements. I am proud to note that we are taking another significant step forward in Johor with robotic-assisted surgery. This technology enhances our ability to perform complex procedures with greater precision while offering patients a less invasive alternative for improved recovery”.

The robotic system offers superior surgical precision, enhanced dexterity and high-definition 3D visualisation, allowing for smaller incisions, reduced tissue trauma, and improved post-operative recovery. Compared to conventional surgery, robotic-assisted procedures can result in shorter hospital stays, reduced pain and lower surgical risks.

Widely used in gynaecology, urology and general surgery, robotic-assisted techniques enable greater control and accuracy, particularly for complex procedures. The system’s advanced robotic instruments replicate natural hand movements with enhanced stability, supporting refined surgical approaches that improve patient safety and recovery.

Dr. Sharifah Shahirah who led the procedure, said, “"I am honoured to have had the opportunity to be the first robotic surgeon at JSH. This advancement will significantly benefit our patients by improving surgical precision and recovery outcomes. For this first case, the procedure was completed smoothly with no complications. Our patient recovered quickly, with minimal blood loss and mild post-operative pain. Incidentally, she will be performing Hajj this year and her fast recovery will support her preparation for the pilgrimage. Moving forward, I hope to expand this service to more patients. This will be part of KPJ’s commitment to advancing women’s health and improving access to innovative treatment options.”

Robotic-assisted surgery is now available at JSH for gynaecological, urological and general surgical procedures, Among the procedures performed using robotic-assisted technology are hysterectomy, myomectomy, endomestriosis surgery, prostate cancer treatment, and hernia repair.

The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery at JSH is part of KPJ Healthcare’s long-term strategy to expand access to high quality medical care through innovation and expertise. Guided by the KPJ Health System’s mission - We Heal, We Teach, We Discover, the Group continues to invest in medical technology, research and education, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care while driving advancements in healthcare.