UNIMAS Gazette: FMHS Collaborates with MSPTM for Community Awareness Programme 2024 at SK St. Bernard Sadir, Padawan

On 13th December 2024, the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), collaborated with the Malaysian Society of Parasitology & Tropical Medicine (MSPTM) for the MSPTM Community Awareness Programme 2024 at SK St. Bernard Sadir, Padawan. The program, chaired by Dr. Paul Cliff Simon Divis, a faculty member of FMHS and Council Member of the 61st MSPTM (2024/2025), carried the theme “Health Awareness and Science Education for School Children in Sarawak.” This event also marked a special milestone as FMHS celebrates its 30th anniversary, further reinforcing its dedication to impactful community engagement.

Strengthening Community Partnerships

The program highlighted strong community collaboration, involving local leaders from Kampung Sadir, Kampung Sibuti, Kampung Sibakar, Kampung Sibuang, and Kampung Annah Rais, alongside the Penghulu and Pemanca Kaum Bidayuh of Kuching District. Representing Sarawak’s Deputy Minister for Transport I, YB Datuk Dr. Jerip anak Susil, was Mr. Julius Scott anak Sapong, Padawan Sub-District Officer, who emphasised the importance of fostering health awareness in rural communities.

Activities for All Ages

The event offered a range of engaging and educational activities for both children and adults, facilitated by FMHS and MSPTM experts.

For School Children

• Hands-On Science Activities: Students explored intestinal parasites and microorganisms under microscopes, sparking curiosity in biological sciences.

• Hygiene Workshops: Interactive sessions on proper handwashing practices emphasised the importance of illness prevention.

• Probiotics Awareness: Led by Dr. Anna Andrew, students learned about gut health and received probiotic drinks supplements sponsored by Yakult, Innoniaga, and The Zoticus Company.

• Fun Learning: Games, quizzes, and storytelling sessions made science education enjoyable and memorable.

For Adults

• Health Screenings and Consultations: FMHS medical professionals provided free health check-ups, women’s health screenings, and mental health consultations to address the community’s needs.

• Nutritional Education: Adults gained insights into probiotics and their role in maintaining overall health.

Significant Community Impact

Over 100 participants, including students, parents, and local leaders, attended the program. The combination of educational activities and health services made a lasting impact on the Padawan community, showcasing the strength of partnerships between academia and local organizations.

Celebrating 30 Years of FMHS

As FMHS celebrates its 30th anniversary, its active role in the programme reflects its commitment to community engagement and advancing health and science education. The milestone marks three decades of excellence in education, research, and service to the community.

Future Aspirations

MSPTM and FMHS look forward to expanding similar initiatives to other rural areas in Sarawak, continuing their shared mission of promoting health awareness and inspiring a passion for science among young learners.