KUCHING, Oct. 2 -- Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) has successfully performed the nation's first intrauterine (foetal) surgery for spina bifida, marking a historic milestone in Malaysia's medical field.

The procedure, carried out on September 22, involved repairing an open spinal defect, known as myelomeningocele, on a baby while still in the mother's womb.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, in congratulating the hospital, said the complex surgery was led by SGH specialists: Dr Tan Lee Na (Maternal Foetal Medicine specialist), Dr Low Peh Hueh (Neurosurgeon), Dr Teo Shu Ching (Anaesthesiologist), and Dr Amita (Neonatologist).

"All four underwent training in Australia last year to prepare for this breakthrough procedure," Dr Sim s...