3.3 – Collaborations and health services

3.3.2 – Health outreach programmes

Throughout 2024, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) demonstrated its strong commitment to promoting community well-being through a wide range of health outreach programmes led by its faculties and healthcare centres. These initiatives were designed to extend health education, preventive care and medical services to diverse groups including rural residents, the elderly, children, disadvantaged people and refugees or immigrant communities. Programmes such as the Pharmacy Awareness Program, Malaysia Madani Healthy Community Initiative (IKMAS), Autsome Resource Bazaar 2024, and Elderly Outreach Program exemplified UKM’s dedication to improving access to healthcare and raising health literacy across the nation. Collaborative efforts with hospitals, government agencies, NGOs and local communities enabled free health screenings, counseling sessions, health talks and rehabilitation training to be delivered to thousands of participants. Collectively, these initiatives reflect UKM’s integrated approach to community engagement, combining academic expertise with social responsibility to support Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), ensuring equitable, inclusive and sustainable health outcomes for all.

Table shows health outreach programmes in 2024

No.	Programmes
1	Local Communities i. Pharmacy Awareness Program ii. Health Communities Build Nations iii. Watan Health Carnival iv. Tun Sri Lanang Library Customer Day v. World Diabetes Day 2024 vi. Health Seminar on Medicine and You vii. General Webinar : Vitamin D is the Key to Your Health viii. Toddler Oral Health Program ix. Aphasia in Malaysia Community Program x. Pulih Strok DIY xi. OPKOM-31 – Optometry Community Service xii. Elderly Outreach Program
2	Disadvantages People i. Student Service Program with the Malaysian Association for Blind ii.  Paraplegia Fitness Integrated Training (PARAFiT) iii. Autsome Resource Bazaar 2024 iv. Community Program : Hearing Healthcare for Down Syndrome Caregivers v. Malaysia Madani Healthy Community Initiative
3	Refugee/Immigrant Communities i. StaChild Project: Smiles Across Borders

1. Local Communities Program

i. Pharmacy Awareness Program

The Pharmacy Awareness Programme is an annual health promotion programme organised by the student Faculty of Pharmacy on 25^th May 2024 at Sunway Velocity Mall. The program included various activities that attracted the general public to participate. The objectives of this program is to increase public awareness in health and to provide pharmacy students an opportunity to engage with the community. This program was carried out in collaboration with several leading pharmacies such as Alpro Pharmacy, Duopharma, Hovid Pharmacy Sdn Bhd and Apex Pharmacy.  A total of 500 participants were successfully engaged through this program.

This program was also participated by National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA), a government agency under the Ministry of Health Malaysia. Its main function is to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines, health supplements, and cosmetic products in the Malaysian market. This program had a significant impact by equipping the community with valuable health knowledge, thereby empowering individuals to make informed choices regarding their well-being and fostering a culture of preventive healthcare.

ii. Healthy Communities Build Nations

The Healthy Communities Build Nations program, organized by the Faculty of Pharmacy, was held on 17 August 2024 at Taman Pinggiran Golf, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, as a free initiative in collaboration with the Neighbourhood Committee (Rukun Tetangga – KRT) Taman Pinggiran Golf. This community engagement program provided health education and medication counseling services to 200 participants, focusing on safe, effective and rational use of medicines. The initiative had a significant impact by improving community health literacy, empowering individuals to make informed healthcare decisions and promoting proactive approaches to well-being. By enhancing knowledge on proper medication use and preventing misuse, the program directly supports SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being) through strengthening public awareness and building healthier, more informed communities.

iii. Watan Health Carnival

Watan Health Carnival is another program organized by Faculty of Pharmacy UKM to enhance public awareness through educating the community about various health topics, including proper medication use. This program was held on 29 September 2024 at Public Servants’ Housing Phase 1C, Precinct 16, Putrajaya. The event featured a medication talk where experts discussed the importance of proper medication use and adherence, highlighting common misconceptions and best practices. Additionally, counseling on medication sessions were conducted to address individual concerns and provide personalized advice on managing medications effectively. The program also emphasized health promotion through interactive activities aiming to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By integrating these elements, Watan Health Carnival fostered a supportive environment that encouraged community engagement and promoted overall well-being. A total of 200 participants were successfully engaged in this program. The impact from this program was the enhancement of community health awareness and improved medication adherence, empowering participants to adopt healthier lifestyles and manage their medications effectively for better health outcomes.

iv. Tun Sri Lanang Library Customer Day

Tun Sri Lanang Library Customer Day is an initiative to connect the library’s services with the community while promoting health awareness. As part of this program, on 24 October 2024, the Faculty of Pharmacy set up a booth providing medication counseling for visitors. This session aims to offer accurate information on proper medication use, the importance of adherence to treatment and addressing any concerns related to medicines. Through this approach, we hope to enhance public awareness of health and ensure the safe and effective use of medications. The objective of this program is To enhance public awareness through educating the community about various health topics, including proper medication use. The program successfully attracted a total of 200 participants. The impact of this program was a positive contribution to the community by increasing awareness of health issues and promoting proper medication use.

v. World Diabetes Day 2024

The World Diabetes Day 2024 was a community health initiative held on 15 November 2024 at Klinik Kesihatan Bukit Changgang, Dengkil, Selangor. The program aimed to raise awareness about diabetes prevention and management through health screenings, medication counseling, and educational activities. The main objective of this program was to educate the community on proper medication use, focusing on insulin therapy and diabetes management.  Additionally, the program seeks to promote safe and effective medication practices, including correct administration, storage and adherence and address public concerns through personalized counseling and guidance.

A total of 50 participants attended the program, which was conducted free of charge in collaboration with Klinik Kesihatan Bukit Changgang and the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA.Impact of the program has successfully increased public awareness of diabetes care, improved medication adherence and enhanced participants’ confidence in using insulin correctly. It empowered individuals to manage their condition more effectively and encouraged healthier lifestyles, contributing to better overall community health.

vi. Health Seminar on Medicine and You

This program was held on 15 November 2024 at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. The program aimed to raise awareness about the safe and proper use of medicines, highlighting the importance of following prescriptions, understanding side effects and managing medications correctly. Objectives of this program are to increase awareness on safe medication use, including dosage, adherence and side effects and provide expert guidance through direct engagement with healthcare professionals. A total of 50 participants attended the seminar, which was conducted free of charge in collaboration with the Faculty of Science and Technology, UKM. The seminar improved participants’ knowledge of proper medication use and increased their confidence in managing health with guidance from professionals. It promoted safer treatment practices and encouraged informed decision-making, contributing to better community well-being.

vii. General Webinar: Vitamin D is the Key to Your Health

The webinar, held online via Zoom on 13 December 2024, aimed to raise awareness about the importance of Vitamin D in supporting bone health, strengthening the immune system and preventing deficiencies. Participants learned from experts about ways to maintain adequate Vitamin D through diet, supplements, and safe sun exposure. The objective of this program is to increase public awareness of the role of Vitamin D in overall health, including bone strength, immunity and disease prevention. A total of 100 participants joined the free webinar. The program improved participants’ knowledge of Vitamin D and encouraged healthier practices such as balanced nutrition, proper supplementation and safe sunlight exposure, contributing to better community health.

viii. Toddler Oral Health Program

This program was organized by the Faculty of Dentistry, UKM.  The Toddler Oral Health Program was held on 23 July 2024 at Taska Permata, UKM Health Campus, Kolej Tun Syed Nasir. The program highlighted the importance of oral health among children and aimed to motivate them to practice good oral hygiene. The main objective of this program is to promote oral health among toddlers and encourage positive habits in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. A number of 20 toddlers participated in the program. The impact of this program has contributed to improved oral health awareness and practices among toddlers.

ix. Aphasia in Malaysia Community Program

This program was held from 31 May to 28 June 2024 at KL Eco City Mall, Kuala Lumpur, this program was a collaboration between Faculty of Health Sciences, UKM and Aphasia in Malaysia in conjunction with Aphasia Awareness Month 2024. It aimed to raise public awareness about aphasia, a communication disorder caused by brain damage and provide support for individuals affected. The main objective is to provide a platform for aphasia warriors to share their experiences and challenges. In addition, this program is expected to increase public awareness and understanding of aphasia and engage UKM students in interactive activities with aphasia warriors to enhance their learning in communication and rehabilitation. The activities conducted under this program include experience-sharing sessions by aphasia warriors, interactive language games and communication training involving UKM Speech Therapy students. A number of 40 participants were involved in this program, including aphasia patients, caregivers and undergraduate Speech Therapy students. The impact of the program was the enhancement of public awareness of aphasia, the fostering of empathy and the provision of hands-on learning experiences for students. It also empowered aphasia warriors by giving them confidence, support and a platform to voice their experiences.

x. PulihStrok DIY

PulihStrok DIY was held on 6 to 8 August 2024 at NASAM Petaling Jaya, PulihStrok DIY was a collaboration between UKM’s Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences and the National Stroke Association of Malaysia (NASAM). The program aimed to help stroke patients carry out effective home-based rehabilitation and raise awareness of continuous therapy. Objectives of PulihStrok DIY are:

• To improve stroke patients’ functionality through self-guided therapy.
• To empower caregivers with rehabilitation knowledge and skills.
• To promote awareness of early and continuous rehabilitation to prevent complications.

Activities included in this program are health talks, experience-sharing by stroke survivors, physiotherapy demonstrations and practical training on safe movements, rehabilitation exercises, nutrition and lifestyle. A number of 30 participants involved stroke patients and caregivers. This program helps participants improve their self-rehabilitation skills, reducing risks such as muscle atrophy and joint stiffness. Caregivers gained confidence, lowering stress and improving patient care. The program also raised awareness of continuous monitoring and support in stroke recovery.

xi. OPKOM-31 – Optometry Community Service

OPKOM-31 was held on 28 April 2024 in Kampung Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak, as part of the Faculty of Health Sciences’, UKM long-standing community optometry outreach program. It was designed to provide accessible eye care services to rural communities with limited healthcare access.

The objectives of this initiative were to provide free eye examinations and vision screenings, raise awareness on the importance of eye health, and offer free eyeglasses to those in need to improve daily functioning. It also sought to strengthen student involvement in community-based health services.

The program included health talks, vision screenings, refraction tests, distribution of free eyeglasses, and interactive engagement sessions between the community and optometry students. With the participation of 324 community members, OPKOM-31 successfully improved access to eye care, enabled early detection of vision problems and supported daily functioning through the provision of free eyeglasses. The program also provided students with valuable hands-on learning experiences while strengthening ties between UKM and the local community.

xii. Elderly Outreach Program

The Elderly Outreach Program was held on 31 August 2024 in Shah Alam, organised by the Faculty of Health Sciences to provide holistic health services and psychosocial support to senior citizens. This program was carried out in collaboration with Lembaga Zakat Selangor. The program was aimed at promoting healthy aging, detecting health issues early and fostering intergenerational engagement.

The objectives of this initiative were to provide health screenings for the early detection of chronic diseases, deliver talks and education on active aging and offer psychosocial support to reduce loneliness and improve mental well-being. The program also encouraged student participation in community healthcare for the elderly.

Activities included health screenings, interactive health talks, counseling sessions, and social activities that engaged both students and the elderly. With the participation of 100 elderly individuals and 50 volunteers, the program succeeded in raising awareness of elderly health issues, promoting active and healthy aging and enabling early detection of chronic diseases. It also enhanced the psychosocial well-being of seniors while strengthening intergenerational bonds between students and the community.

2. Disadvantages People Program

i. Student Service Program With The Malaysian Association for Blind (MAB)

The Student Service Program with the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB), organized by the Faculty of Pharmacy in collaboration with the Diagnostic Imaging and Radiotherapy Program of the Faculty of Health Sciences, was held on 14 January 2024 at the MAB Complex, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, as a free program. Targeting disadvantaged groups, particularly the blind community, the initiative provided health education through exhibitions on registered and counterfeit medicines as well as counseling on proper use of medicines and health supplements. With the participation of 100 individuals, the program had a meaningful impact by empowering blind people with vital health knowledge, thereby enabling informed decision-making about their well-being, while also giving pharmacy students valuable experiential learning through direct community engagement. This initiative contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being) by promoting inclusive healthcare education, enhancing awareness among marginalized groups and fostering student-community collaboration for social impact.

ii. Paraplegia Fitness Integrated Training (PARAFiT)

Paraplegia Fitness Integrated Training (PARAFiT) was conducted on 20 April 2024 at Anjung Floria, Putrajaya. PARAFiT was a program designed for spinal cord injury patients to improve physical fitness and well-being through structured exercise and health education. This program was carried out in collaboration with  Malaysian Spinal Cord Injury Advocacy Association (MASAA) and Putrajaya Association of Persons with Disabilities (PROcJaya). The objective of this program is to improve physical fitness and quality of life of spinal cord injury patients. Another objective that is expected to be achieved through this program is to raise awareness of the importance of exercise in rehabilitation and motivate participants to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles. Activities conducted as part of this program include tailored exercise sessions focusing on strength, endurance, flexibility and health education on fitness and nutrition. This program improved participants’ strength, endurance and confidence in daily life, while reducing risks of complications from inactivity. It also encouraged healthier lifestyles and greater motivation in rehabilitation.

iii. Autsome Resource Bazaar (ARB) 2024

The Autsome Resource Bazaar (ARB) 2024 was held in April 2024 at Sunway Putra Mall. This program was jointly organised by UKM, Sunway Putra Mall and several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with the aim of supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and special needs through awareness-building and the provision of essential resources.

The objectives of this program were to provide support and resources to individuals with ASD and their families, raise public awareness on inclusivity and the well-being of the ASD community, introduce various interventions and therapies to improve quality of life and create opportunities for families to connect with healthcare and education experts.

Among the activities conducted were knowledge-sharing sessions by experts, therapy and education workshops, exhibitions, advisory services, interactive games and therapy demonstrations. The program successfully increased awareness and acceptance of ASD, strengthened family support networks and improved access to therapies. It also empowered caregivers with knowledge and skills to better support children with ASD, thereby promoting inclusivity and enhancing the overall well-being of the ASD community.

iv. Community Program: Hearing Healthcare for Down Syndrome Caregivers

The Community Program on Hearing Healthcare for Down Syndrome Caregivers was conducted in April 2024 by Faculty of Health Sciences, UKM in collaboration with several NGOs. The program was initiated to address the high prevalence of hearing impairment among individuals with Down syndrome and to promote early intervention and caregiver support.

The objectives of this initiative were to raise awareness on the importance of hearing healthcare, provide early screenings to detect potential hearing problems, and train parents, teachers, and caregivers in effective communication techniques and the use of hearing aids. It also aimed to strengthen collaboration between academia, NGOs and the wider community to improve the overall well-being of individuals with Down syndrome.

Activities carried out included awareness talks, free hearing screenings, caregiver training workshops, and interactive sessions where families could share their experiences. The program successfully enhanced awareness of early hearing intervention, improved access to screening and treatment, and built stronger support networks for families and educators. It also fostered closer collaboration between NGOs and academia, reinforcing advocacy for individuals with special needs.

v. Malaysia Madani Healthy Community Initiative (IKMAS)

The Malaysia Madani Healthy Community Initiative (Inisiatif Komuniti Malaysia Madani Sihat – IKMAS) was conducted on 27–28 July 2024 at Indigenous Peoples settlement area Pos Tenau, Perak. The program was officiated by Dato’ Ir. Dr. Safry Kamal Hj. Ahmad, Orang Besar Jajahan Muallim, Perak. This outreach initiative was organised by UKM and Hospital Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), in collaboration with the District Health Office of Muallim, Department of Indigenous Peoples Development (JAKOA), the District Education Office of Muallim, the District MARA Office of Batang Padang and the local Indigenous Peoples community of Kampung Pos Tenau. The program aimed to improve the health and well-being of the Indigenous Peoples community through health services, education, and engagement activities.

The objectives of this program were to provide health screenings and consultations with specialists from HCTM, implement a Community Feeding Program for children, distribute healthy food aid to  families and strengthen volunteerism among undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as HCTM staff. The program also sought to empower the Indigenous Peoples community in disease prevention and health practices through guidance from public health experts from the Faculty of Medicine, UKM and HCTM.

Activities conducted during the program included health screenings (blood pressure, glucose level, BMI, and carbon monoxide tests), blood typing, medical consultations and health education sessions on hygiene, nutrition and disease prevention. A Community Feeding Program for children, distribution of healthy food aid, and community engagement through physical activities were also carried out.

The program recorded participation from 200 individuals and was supported by a financial allocation of RM17,150. It successfully increased awareness of hygiene, nutrition and preventive healthcare, enabled early detection of health risks, and improved access to quality medical services for the Indigenous Peoples community, who often face challenges due to their remote location. The initiative also strengthened collaboration between healthcare institutions, academia, government agencies, and the local community, fostering sustainable community health development.

Overall, the IKMAS program was a significant outreach initiative that not only delivered essential healthcare services but also educated and empowered the Indigenous Peoples community. By addressing nutrition, hygiene, and preventive care, the program contributed meaningfully to their overall well-being and highlighted the importance of long-term, collaborative health interventions for disadvantaged communities.

3. Refugee/Immigrant Communities

i. StaChild Project: Smiles Across Borders

On 18 July 2024, the Dental Public Health Unit, together with the Industry and Community Affairs Secretariat of the Faculty of Dentistry, UKM, conducted a community outreach initiative titled “StaChild Project: Smiles Across Borders” at Sanggar Belajar Sentul, Kampung Chubadak Hilir, Kuala Lumpur. Supported by UKM’s clinical service staff and four student volunteers from Universitas Hasanuddin (UNHAS), Indonesia, this free programme focused on promoting oral health awareness and care among stateless and displaced children.

Through engaging educational activities such as dental check-ups, toothbrushing demonstrations, puppet shows, and colouring contests, the programme successfully provided hands-on learning experiences that encouraged healthy hygiene habits and improved understanding of oral health among children without citizenship status. Beyond the direct service component, the initiative also strengthened cross-border collaboration and enhanced the social responsibility and professional skills of UKM’s staff and students.

This impactful project underscores UKM’s strong dedication to organizing outreach educational activities for displaced and marginalized populations, ensuring that even vulnerable groups have access to essential health education. The programme reflects UKM’s inclusive approach to community engagement and its alignment with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by addressing healthcare and educational disparities among stateless children.

In 2024,UKM made a remarkable impact through a series of health outreach programmes that reached diverse communities nationwide. Across 17 major initiatives, ranging from urban health awareness campaigns to rural medical missions UKM strengthened public health literacy, enhanced access to healthcare services, and promoted inclusive well-being. Through collaborations with government agencies, hospitals, NGOs and local communities, these programmes delivered free health screenings, counseling sessions, rehabilitation workshops, and health education for groups including children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and the Indigenous Peoples community. Initiatives such as PulihStrok DIY, Paraplegia Fitness Integrated Training (PARAFiT), and the Malaysia Madani Healthy Community Initiative (IKMAS) empowered vulnerable populations with preventive healthcare knowledge and long-term support systems. Collectively, these outreach efforts have improved disease prevention, encouraged healthy lifestyles, strengthened community resilience and fostered intergenerational engagement demonstrating UKM’s strong commitment to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) through education, service and collaboration.