Welcome to the 5th Annual Congress of the South East Asian Thoracic Society (SEATS 2026), proudly returning to our home city of Singapore from 11 – 14 November 2026.

It is with great pride and excitement that we invite you to this landmark gathering of thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, oncologists, anaesthesiologists, allied health professionals, researchers, and industry partners from across South East Asia and beyond. After successful meetings in Hue, Vietnam, Bangkok, Manila, and Bali, SEATS now returns to Singapore (where our society was founded in 2019) to celebrate our shared journey and to shape the next chapter of thoracic medicine and surgery in our region.

Our foremost mission for SEATS 2026 is to create an unparalleled platform for the exchange of knowledge, surgical innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration. We aim to deliver a truly inspiring scientific and educational programme that reflects the rapid evolution of our specialty: from uniportal and robotic-assisted thoracic surgery to lung transplantation, interventional pulmonology, advanced thoracic oncology, and the integration of artificial intelligence and digital technology into daily practice.

Expect lively debates on controversies, live surgery transmissions, hands-on wet labs, and dedicated sessions addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within the diverse healthcare systems of ASEAN.

Singapore, a global medical hub and the beating heart of South East Asia, is the perfect stage for this Congress. Here, East meets West, tradition meets innovation, and clinical excellence meets cutting-edge research.

Our local institutions have long served as beacons of training and technological advancement for the entire region, having mentored generations of thoracic specialists who now lead units from Yangon to Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City to Kuala Lumpur. In November 2026, we will build on this proud legacy and strengthen the bonds that make our regional thoracic community so special.

This Congress will not only update your knowledge; it will challenge your thinking, expand your network, and reignite your passion for improving the lives of patients with thoracic disease across our region.

Join us as we come together in friendship and shared purpose, united by the common goal of raising the standard of thoracic care for every patient in South East Asia and beyond.

Mark your calendars from 11 – 14 November 2026. Singapore awaits you with open arms, world-class science, and the warm hospitality for which our city is renowned.

Let us make SEATS 2026 an unforgettable celebration of thoracic excellence, regional solidarity, and future-forward innovation!

On Behalf of SEATS 2026 Annual Meeting Organising Committee

Dr Harish Mithiran
SEATS 2026 Congress President