Future physiotherapists make solemn promise to serve the community

(Front row, from left) FMHS Lecturer Tarun Amalnerkar, Prof Cheong, Nur Hidayah, Head of Department of Physiotherapy Muhammad Noh Zulfikri bin Mohd Jamali and FMHS staff Nurul Husna binti Khairuddin with other staff and students

“..I will strive to understand my limitations, weakness and errors, and I promise to never put an end to my studying and learning. I promise to improve myself every day and in all the years to come.”

The hall echoed with the voice of forty-six Physiotherapy students, hands raised, taking the pledge at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Science (FHMS) Physiotherapy White Coat Ceremony, held in UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 31 January 2020.

The oath was led by Physiotherapy student Chew Jie Xiang

The white coat ceremony is a tradition based on Hippocrates and symbolises the students’ transition from the study of preclinical to clinical practice. The ceremony was originated in Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine in 1989 while the first full-fledged ceremony took place in 1993 at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

“As you don your white coat for the first time, realise that this is the first step of your journey, full of excitement and frustration, and it will be the most fantastic journey that you will ever take,” said FMHS Dean Emeritus Prof Dr Cheong Soon Keng in his welcome speech.

Prof Cheong was glad to mention that this year is the 10th anniversary of FMHS

“If you can tackle the patient to trust you, you are successful. Pay respect to the rights of the patients and their families. Keep private and confidential information to yourselves,” advised Ministry of Health Senior Physiotherapist Nur Hidayah Ong Abdullah.

“A good physiotherapist acquires the ability to transfer knowledge to patients to help with the healing session,” added Nur Hidayah who have been serving for almost 30 years in physiotherapy. Speaking of job opportunity, the head of Medical Recovery Unit of Hospital Sultanah Aminah Johor Bahru cleared away the concern, saying, “Do not worry, a physiotherapist is always needed everywhere. Be a very good student, apply your skills and you will do great.”

With two-third of physiotherapists being diploma holders, Nur Hidayah encouraged everyone to pursue higher education qualification

Interlude entertainment by Physiotherapy student Voon Sin Yee singing “Everything I Need” by Skylar Grey



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