Sadong Jaya, Sarawak – 23 November 2025: A group of Master in Public Health (MPH) students from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) carried out a community programme in Sadong Jaya, Samarahan, to help older residents manage knee pain and stay active as they age.
The event, held at Dewan Warisan and attended by about 80 members of the Kelab Warga Usia Emas (KWUE), focused on simple, home-based ways to ease symptoms of knee osteoarthritis — a condition that affects mobility and quality of life for many elderly Malaysians.
A growing concern in an aging population
Knee osteoarthritis is among the main causes of disability in older adults. Studies suggest that more than one-quarter of Malaysians aged 60 and above live with symptoms of the condition. In rural areas like Sadong Jaya, access to physiotherapy or specialist care is limited, leaving many to manage the pain on their own.
The programme, led by MPH coordinator Dr Muhammad Fahmi bin Mohd Diah, set out to improve knowledge, attitudes, and practical skills related to knee-pain management among the elderly community.
Where learning meets movement
The morning began with registration and a brief safety session, followed by low-intensity Tai Chi led by KWUE members — a light exercise routine chosen for its gentle, joint-friendly movements.
Participants later underwent basic health and mobility checks, including pain scoring, the Get Up and Go test, and the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand test, which helps gauge lower-limb strength and fall risk.
MPH candidate Dr. Mohd Khairunnaim Bin Che Khalid delivered a short talk explaining what causes knee pain and how simple daily strategies can reduce discomfort.
The heart of the programme came during a hands-on session, where students guided participants through stretching and strengthening exercises they could continue at home. The team also highlighted household safety measures — such as improving lighting and fixing loose rugs — to prevent falls.
A community effort
The programme brought together UNIMAS staff, health officials, and community leaders. Among those present were:
- A/P Dr. Deburra Peak Ngadan and A/P Dr. Azizah binti Azhar from the Family Health Course
- En. Eshak bin Ramli, Chairman of KWUE Sadong Jaya
- Dr. Dayang Nurul Hayati binti Rabaiee, representing the Samarahan Division Health Office
- Senior Assistant Medical Officer Ahmad Tajudin bin Sabang, representing the Sadong Jaya Health Clinic
- Support also came from local businesses and organisations, including CTM Manjhucy Enterprise, Klinik Morni, Persatuan Pencegah TB Sarawak (ATAS), PGMed UNIMAS, Farley Kuching, the Sadong Jaya Market Committee, PKB Samarahan, Meliponi, and Syarikat RD Gemilang.
- In a gesture that drew warm appreciation from residents, Robert T 1994 Optical offered free eye screenings and provided spectacles at no cost to those who needed them.
Strengthening ties with the community
The programme ended with an appreciation session and lunch — a chance for students, health staff, and villagers to reflect on the day’s activities and the broader goal of supporting healthier ageing in rural Sarawak.
Article by Dr Muhammad Fahmi bin Mohd Diah, MPH 2025/26 candidate
