At UNIMAS, we believe in making a difference – not just through research and education, but by actively contributing to the communities that need it the most. Recently, our Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) took part in a health outreach programme that truly exemplifies our commitment to helping marginalized groups. We headed to Kampung Lusong Laku, a remote Penan settlement in Belaga, to provide crucial healthcare services and raise awareness about health issues.
UNIMAS, through the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, collaborated with the Sarawak Breast Cancer Support Group (SBCSG), and Klinik Kesihatan Lusong Laku, supported also by local and international partners, including PMG Healthcare and Yakult Malaysia. Together, we aimed to bring essential health services, education, and preventative care to over 100 villagers.
One of the key highlights of the programme was our focus on malaria education and empowerment. Thanks to the Malaria Research Centre (MRC) team, including Associate Professors Dr. Paul Cliff Simon Divis and Dr. Rekaya Vincent Balang, we trained local women to become family health advisors. These women are now equipped to spread health awareness throughout their communities, ensuring that the impact of this programme will be felt for years to come.
But that’s not all. Our team also carried out HPV screenings for local women, providing essential cervical cancer education. Special donations, including mosquito repellents and even a malaria gamification floor mat for the children at SK Lusong Laku, were made to keep the community engaged and proactive about their health.
We also want to shout out our incredible sponsors, PMG Healthcare and Yakult Malaysia, for their generous support. PMG Healthcare provided over-the-counter medicines, and Yakult played an important role in promoting gut health with their products. These contributions helped us provide the best care possible.
It wasn’t just about screenings and treatments. Our initiative was about empowering the people of Lusong Laku to take charge of their health, and we’re incredibly proud of the lasting impact we’ve made. This is just one example of how UNIMAS is giving back to the people of Sarawak, and we’re eager to continue this journey.
As part of our 30th anniversary celebrations, we hope this outreach will inspire younger healthcare providers – especially those from FMHS – to continue this tradition of service. It’s an experience that not only enhances professional growth but also nurtures compassion, cultural understanding, and a strong sense of civic responsibility.
UNIMAS is committed to helping communities thrive, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to bring healthcare, education, and hope to every corner of Sarawak. Want to get involved? We’re always looking for passionate volunteers to help make a difference. Reach out to Dr. Melissa Lim Siaw Han at lshmelissa@unimas.my to learn how you can contribute.
