The Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Syiah Kuala (FKG USK), held a Visiting Professor program on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the FKG USK Hall. The program featured Prof. Dr. Amaliya, drg., M.Sc., Ph.D., FIMMA, Professor of Periodontology and Professor of Periodontal Sciences at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Padjadjaran, as the keynote speaker.
The program was officially opened by the Dean of FKG USK, Dr. drg. Zulfan M. Alibasyah, Sp.Perio. In his opening remarks, the Dean expressed his appreciation to Prof. Amaliya for taking the time to attend the program in person despite her busy schedule. He highlighted that the presence of a distinguished professor with expertise in periodontology provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen the academic environment at FKG USK.
“The Visiting Professor Program reflects our commitment to improving academic quality and enriching the development of scientific knowledge,” said the Dean.
He further emphasized that the impact of smoking on periodontal tissues remains a significant challenge encountered in clinical practice. Therefore, the knowledge gained through the program is expected to support appropriate clinical interventions and treatment for patients. The Dean also encouraged lecturers and students to actively participate in discussions and gain insights from the speaker’s academic and clinical experience.
Tobacco Harm Reduction Education
The program began with an educational session entitled “Tobacco Harm Reduction Impact on Periodontal Health: Education for Indonesian Nationwide Dental Students,” delivered by Dr. drg. Siti Sopiatin, Sp.Perio., Subsp. MP(K), from the Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Padjadjaran.
The session explored the impact of tobacco harm reduction education on periodontal health, particularly in relation to dental students’ perceptions, awareness, and knowledge across different regions of Indonesia. Participants completed pre-tests and post-tests as part of the program evaluation.
Expert Lecture: The Effects of Smoking on Host Response and Periodontal Microflora
The main session featured an expert lecture by Prof. Amaliya entitled “The Effects of Smoking on Host Response and Periodontal Microflora: Implications for Clinical Therapy.” The lecture discussed how smoking affects the body’s immune response and alters the oral microbial ecosystem, as well as the clinical implications of these changes for periodontal treatment.
The lecture was followed by an interactive discussion and question-and-answer session. Participants actively engaged in the discussion, gaining further insights into the relationship between smoking, periodontal health, and clinical management.
Presentation of Awards
At the end of the program, the Dean of FKG USK presented certificates and plaques to Prof. Amaliya and Dr. drg. Siti Sopiatin in recognition of their contributions to the Visiting Professor program. The event concluded with a group photograph.
The program was attended by study program coordinators, the Head of the Department of Periodontology, lecturers, and students of FKG USK. Through this Visiting Professor program, FKG USK hopes to provide its academic community with up-to-date knowledge from experts in periodontology, further enriching academic perspectives and supporting the improvement of dental education and oral healthcare services.
