Malaysia showcases 5G XR live surgery to global medics

Universiti Malaya Medical Centre has carried out what it describes as one of the world's first real-time, multi-country live surgeries using a 5G-enabled artificial intelligence and extended reality platform, in partnership with Malaysian mobile operator CelcomDigi.

The ear, nose and throat (ENT) procedure took place in Petaling Jaya and used an AI-powered HoloMedicine Robotics extended reality system from German health technology firm apoQlar. The set-up connected surgeons in the operating theatre with medical students and specialists in multiple countries via CelcomDigi's 5G network.

The live session linked Universiti Malaya Medical Centre, known as UMMC, with participants in the United States, South Korea, Bhutan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and several Malaysian states including Putrajaya, Kedah, Johor and Sarawak. Institutions in the US included Harvard Medical School, Mayo Clinic and Vanderbilt University Medical Centre.

Professor Dr Mohd Zulkiflee bin Abu Bakar, Director of UMMC, Otorhinolaryngologist and Head & Neck Oncosurgeon, led the surgery with Dr Julius Goh Liang Chye, Senior Lecturer and Clinical Specialist ENT. The operating team used extended reality headsets and visual feeds that overlaid digital information onto the real-world surgical field.

The HoloMedicine platform delivered three-dimensional views and interactive overlays that allowed remote observers to follow the procedure step by step. The feed also supported real-time annotations and guidance from international experts.

CelcomDigi provided 5G connectivity with ultra-low latency for the operating theatre environment. The company said this supported high-definition video and synchronised audio between Malaysia and overseas locations during the procedure.

According to the partners, remote participants viewed critical stages of the surgery with minimal lag and a stable visual stream. They also took part in two-way clinical discussions while the procedure was under way.

The project team said these technical conditions enabled remote proctoring, in which senior specialists can supervise or advise on a case from another location. It also supported interactive training for medical students outside the hospital.

CelcomDigi framed the event as part of a wider strategy around 5G use in healthcare. The operator is expanding its focus on applications that require consistent connectivity and data-intensive video transmission.

CelcomDigi's Chief Innovation Officer, T. Kugan, said the initiative demonstrated regional potential for such services. "This landmark surgery is testament to how Malaysia can lead the region in digital healthcare innovation. Innovation and 5G connectivity are enabling critical real-time applications that can transform lives. By combining ultra-low latency 5G network with AI and XR-powered HoloMedicine, we are enabling surgeons, educators and students across multiple countries to collaborate as if they were in the same operating theatre. As Malaysia's leader in 5G services, we are honoured to support UMMC in realising the nation's ambition to be a regional centre of medical excellence," said Kugan.

The procedure highlighted interest in using extended reality tools in hospitals as part of surgical training and specialist collaboration. The technology can project three-dimensional anatomical models, imaging data or surgical plans into the field of view of surgeons and observers.

The partners said the UMMC case showed how such tools can work within existing clinical workflows. They said the project avoided disruption to normal operating theatre routines while adding visual information for teaching purposes.

UMMC said the event fits within its role as an academic medical centre under the Ministry of Higher Education. The hospital runs programmes for undergraduate and postgraduate medical education and conducts clinical research in multiple specialties.

Professor Dr Mohd Zulkiflee said the experience introduced a new model for sharing expertise. "This live surgery marks a major step forward in how we train future surgeons and share specialist expertise. Through real-time, immersive XR technology, our clinicians and students were able to participate in surgical procedures beyond physical boundaries. Our partnership with CelcomDigi allows us to create new possibilities for cross-border collaboration, expanding access to specialist training, improving clinical capability and ultimately enhancing patient care," said Mohd Zulkiflee.

The initiative aligns with Malaysia's efforts in digital health and medical tourism. Policymakers have highlighted specialist services and advanced medical procedures as areas for cross-border demand.

The hospital and operator said the demonstration underlined how 5G and XR can increase access to advanced training without requiring travel. They said this can reduce costs for institutions and give more clinicians exposure to complex procedures.

UMMC plans a series of follow-up sessions using the same set-up. The next phase includes live urology surgeries that will focus on remote observation and interactive discussion around surgical decisions.

Further colorectal surgery broadcasts are also scheduled. These will test the XR platform in different types of procedures and in varied parts of the body.

The centre will run additional ENT cases using the system. These sessions will involve regional observers in Asia and domestic participants from other Malaysian states.

The organisations involved describe the exercise as a proof of concept for the safe use of XR and AI tools in active operating theatres. They said the system worked alongside conventional surgical instruments and imaging rather than replacing them.

They also said the visual overlays improved clarity during teaching segments. This included the marking of anatomical landmarks and the sequencing of specific surgical manoeuvres for students.

UMMC and CelcomDigi said the work lays a foundation for broader adoption of digital tools in hospitals. Both groups intend to expand their collaboration on live procedures and remote education over the coming months.