Long before high-tech medical imaging and precision therapeutics, the roots of medicine were preserved in anatomical models, pathology slides, and surgical instruments. Today, those roots live on at the Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai Medical Museum, located within the Faculty of Medicine at Universiti Malaya (UM). The museum stands as a tribute to the past, a teaching tool for today, and an inspiration for tomorrow’s healers.
A Legacy of Medical Education
The museum’s history traces back to two foundational units:
- In 1964, the Anatomy Museum was founded to support early medical education through anatomical specimens and models. Faculty of Medicine
- In 1968, the Pathology Museum was established to deepen understanding of diseases through pathological collections. Faculty of Medicine
Over time, as the Faculty of Medicine expanded and educational methods evolved, the Anatomy Resource Centre was launched in 2000 to modernize anatomy teaching tools. Faculty of Medicine In recent years, UM integrated the Anatomy and Pathology museums into a unified facility under the name Medical Museum Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai, renewing its mission and raising its profile with a new inauguration in 2025. Faculty of Medicine
What You’ll See
The museum is thoughtfully organized into thematic zones designed to engage curiosities and deepen understanding:
- The Cycle of Life — an overarching exhibition that follows the human journey from conception to death, encouraging reflection on health, wellness, and our shared collective path. Faculty of Medicine
- The Seven Wonders — a rare and treasured collection of human specimens, preserved and curated over decades. Faculty of Medicine
- Hall of Medical Legacy — a showcase of UM’s medical heritage: old books, instruments, portraits, and stories of faculty and contributions. Faculty of Medicine
- Interactive Learning Area — hands-on stations where visitors can simulate patient consultations, examine blood slides under microscopes, interpret X-rays, and more. Faculty of Medicine
- The Living Lab — a behind-glass view into active medical education, where students engage in anatomy and pathology work though visitors can observe. Faculty of Medicine
- The Gallery — where art and healing intersect. Works by students and faculty will be showcased in rotating exhibits tied to themes of life, health, and human experience. Faculty of Medicine
Visiting Information & Experience
- Hours: Open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with last admission at 3:30 pm. Faculty of Medicine
- Admission: Free until 31 May 2025; entrance fees will apply after that, pending updates. Faculty of Medicine
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible. Please email in advance to help with drop-off directions. Faculty of Medicine
- Guided Tours: A 90-minute guided group tour (Cycle of Life, history, interactive areas) is available by appointment (preferably 2 weeks ahead). Faculty of Medicine
- Notes & Etiquette:
• The museum contains human remains; recommended visitor age is 7 years and above. Children under 7 must be accompanied. Faculty of Medicine
• No photography or filming permitted in main exhibition zones (to respect the dignity of specimens). Faculty of Medicine
• No food or drink is allowed. Faculty of Medicine
• Visitors are expected to behave respectfully given the sensitive nature of the collections. Faculty of Medicine
As someone who believes deeply in preserving knowledge and inspiring future generations, I am honored that this museum carries my name. It is my hope that students, healthcare professionals, and curious minds alike will walk its halls and leave with renewed respect for the history of medicine—and renewed curiosity for its future.
To learn more about the museum’s exhibits, visiting hours, and guided tours, visit the UM Medicine Museum’s official page: Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai Medical Museum – UM Faculty of Medicine Museum.
