Written by Ong Ying Ying1 and Edna Lim1, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Edited by Associate Prof. Dr Deburra Peak Ngadan1
Photo Credits: Mohamed Redduan Bin Mohamed Atta1, Tharmalingam Rajalingam1
1Masters in Public Health, 2024/2025 – 1 (Community Medicine and Public Health Department)

Photo 1.0 Group photo with Headmaster of SMK Green Road (5th from left) and Family Health lecturers (2nd and 3rd from Left), Health Promotion and Behaviour lecturer (4th from Left) with MPH students (in red coloured shirts)
On December 13, 2024, Masters of Public Health (MPH) students from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) successfully organized the “Girl Talk – Empower Your Choices” programme at SMK Green Road, Kuching. This initiative aimed to raise awareness of sexual and reproductive health among adolescent girls while addressing critical issues like teenage pregnancy and mental health challenges.

Photo 2. Ice breaking activity with the students of SMK Green Road
Empowering Adolescents with Knowledge
The “Girl Talk” programme was part of the Family Health and Health Promotion courses. Its primary goal was to provide secondary school girls with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their health. Through interactive discussions and engaging activities, the programme aimed to tackle misconceptions and improve mental well-being.
Dynamic Activities to Engage and Educate
The event’s agenda included various stations designed to educate and involve participants actively:

Station 1: Flex your emotion
Activities here encouraged participants to express their feelings and thoughts through games, fostering a safe environment for open communication.

Station 2: Facts and Myths
This interactive session focused on debunking myths and reinforcing accurate information about sexual and reproductive health. Participants were encouraged to ask questions, promoting critical thinking and informed decision-making.

Station 3: Thumb your way out
This station emphasized mental health, highlighting the importance of seeking support when needed. Activities showcased the significance of mental well-being alongside physical health.

These activities not only engaged the participants but also demonstrated the MPH students’ capability to design impactful health promotion interventions, fulfilling the course’s learning objectives.
Evaluating Impact
The programme’s effectiveness was assessed through pre- and post-tests, which showed significant improvement in participants’ understanding of sexual and reproductive health topics. By creating an atmosphere of trust and openness, the initiative enhanced participants’ confidence in discussing sensitive issues.

Building Collaboration for a Healthier Future
The success of the “Girl Talk” programme was made possible through the collaborative efforts of UNIMAS MPH students, the support of SMK Green Road’s principal and staff, and guidance from Family Health and Health Promotion lecturers.
This initiative highlights UNIMAS’s commitment to addressing community health challenges through education and engagement. By empowering the next generation with knowledge and confidence, the MPH students have set the stage for healthier and more informed futures.