Dementia is often associated with older adults, yet its impact extends far beyond individuals living with the condition. Families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and communities all play important roles in supporting those affected. Recognising the need to increase public understanding of dementia and promote brain health, the Cognitive Neuroscience Club (CNC) of the Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (FCSHD), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), organised a series of dementia awareness programmes in collaboration with the International Brain Research Organisation (IBRO).
The initiatives, conducted under the KMF1053 Cognitive Neurosciences course, were supported through IBRO’s Brain Awareness Week Grants. This support enabled students to translate scientific knowledge in neuroscience into practical information that could benefit both the wider community and university students.
The first programme was held on 2 May 2026 at Adam and Eve Elderly Home in Kuching. The outreach programme brought together senior citizens, caregivers, staff, volunteers, and university students in an effort to raise awareness of healthy ageing and dementia prevention.
A key component of the programme was a health talk delivered by Dr Law Leh Shii from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UNIMAS. Drawing on his expertise in community health, food, and nutrition, Dr Law shared insights on healthy ageing, nutrition for brain health, and lifestyle practices that may help reduce the risk of dementia.
Beyond the educational session, students engaged directly with residents through interactive activities and storytelling sessions. These interactions provided students with valuable opportunities to better understand the experiences and challenges faced by older adults while highlighting the importance of emotional and social support in promoting quality of life.
The second programme, held on 10 June 2026 at FCSHD, shifted the focus towards university students. The initiative aimed to increase awareness among young adults about dementia, including its early signs, risk factors, preventive strategies, and wider implications for individuals, families, and society.
The programme was officiated by the Dean of FCSHD, Dr Hana Hamidi, underscoring the Faculty’s commitment to promoting health literacy and community engagement. The keynote address was delivered by Professor Dr Helmy Hazmi, Deputy Dean of Postgraduate Studies at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and a specialist in Public Health Medicine. His presentation examined dementia from a public health perspective and emphasised the importance of early awareness and healthy lifestyle practices in maintaining cognitive health.
Students actively participated in discussions during an interactive question-and-answer session, reflecting growing interest in issues related to brain health and healthy ageing. To further encourage engagement, the programme also featured student-centred activities, including a Quiz Bee Challenge and a Best Poster Competition, providing participants with opportunities to demonstrate both their knowledge and creativity in communicating dementia-related messages.
Both initiatives were coordinated by CNC advisor Dr Siti Atiyah Ali together with student programme directors Mohd Hafizzul Hakim and Laurel Dawn Ang Anak Richard Juman, supported by their organising committee members. The programmes not only strengthened dementia awareness among participants but also provided students with practical experience in leadership, programme management, and community engagement.
By engaging both community members and university students, the initiatives highlighted the importance of addressing dementia as a shared societal concern rather than solely a medical issue. The programmes also contributed towards reducing stigma surrounding cognitive decline while encouraging participants to become advocates for brain health within their families and communities.
Through collaborations such as this, UNIMAS continues to strengthen its role in promoting scientific literacy, community well-being, and healthy ageing. The Cognitive Neuroscience Club looks forward to expanding similar initiatives in the future to further advance dementia awareness and cognitive wellness across Sarawak.
Contributed by Dr Siti Atiyah Ali/CNC Advisor