From Central Office
Highlights from ISBT Kuala Lumpur 2026
We are celebrating a successful ISBT congress in the beautiful city of Kuala Lumpur, especially rewarding because ISBT KL was the planned location for the 2022 ISBT congress before the pandemic changed all of our plans. Thanks to the Malaysian Society of Blood Transfusion (MBTS), for their understanding and support back in 2022 and for the fantastic commitment to this congress in 2026, which was well worth the wait!
WP meetings and open workshops on Saturday and Sunday with the 16 ISBT WPs getting together to set up workplans, share ideas and catch up on the latest developments and research in their areas. Thanks to the ISBT Scientific Secretaries (incoming and outgoing!), the MBTS local organising committee, ISBT Vice Presidents and ISBT working parties at the heart of the congress was a fantastic scientific programme packed with the latest developments in the transfusion science and medicine, delivered in plenary and award sessions, parallel sessions, invited and oral abstract presentations, working party sessions.
The closing ceremony video from ISBT Kuala Lumpur
Something for everyone...
A series of workshops gave a real opportunity to get involved, exchange ideas and learn from each other. Opportunities for networking and collaboration throughout the congress including the poster session where a poster walk was reinstituted to give poster presenters a platform to present their posters to groups of delegates. The industry exhibition and symposia were a important elements of the congress as always, and of course the social events, exhibition opening reception, YPC breakfast, yoga and the famous ISBT party!
Recognition of excellence in transfusion medicine – awards were made both at the opening ceremony within the Presidential Award session. It was a time for change, as well as for the scientific secretary position, with Karin and Jenny to experiencing and enjoying a congress together as a vital part of the Executive Director handover. Delegates went home having enjoyed all the congress had to offer - full of knowledge, with great memories of Kula Lumpur and legendary Malaysian hospitality, and with connections that will last long into the future.
