UTAR Medical Week 4.0 rings the bell of health

Medical Week 4.0 poster

The UTAR Medical Week 4.0 was held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 2 and 3 November 2024. Organised by students from the Medical and Health Sciences Society, Chinese Medicine Society, Physiotherapy Society, and Dietetics Society, the flagship event aimed to raise awareness of healthy living under the theme ‘Ring the Bell of Health’.

The opening ceremony was attended by UTAR Vice President for Internationalisation and Academic Development Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min, M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (Mk FMHS) Dean Prof Dr Thong Meow Keong, MSEF Professor of Medicine Prof Dr Lee Way Seah, Department of Surgery Head Dr Yan Naing Soe, Department of Physiotherapy Head Dr Muhammad Noh Zulfikri bin Mohd Jamali, Medical and Health Sciences Society Advisor Dr Shwe Sin and UTAR Medical Week 4.0 Chairperson Lam Keat Nam.

During the opening ceremony, a pre-recorded message from UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat was played. He highlighted the event as a valuable opportunity to enhance ties between UTAR and the broader community, emphasising the importance of collaboration in promoting awareness of health and well-being and inspiring active engagement in healthy practices.

Prof Thong, in his speech, said, “Medical Week 4.0 is a clear manifestation of what we teach our students – the importance of teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. In the real world, no one works alone; effective healthcare depends on everyone sharing the workload and contributing their expertise. This event exemplifies the essence of working together to provide the best care for patients, especially in an era where chronic illnesses require preventive, curative, and rehabilitative approaches.”

Prof Thong delivering his speech

Lam, in his speech, greeted the attendees and shared that this year’s event, hosted at the Sungai Long Campus, marks the fourth edition since its inception in 2018. According to him, the Medical Week includes two days of physical checkups and treatments, complemented by pre-event online talks covering various healthcare disciplines. He highlighted the event’s unique “mini hospital” concept, which promotes collaboration among future healthcare professionals. Expressing gratitude to the sponsors and committee members for their steadfast support despite challenges, Lam emphasised the event’s commitment to improving community health.

Lam expressing gratitude to sponsors and committee members

Over the two days, the event attracted hundreds of participants from the University and the surrounding community. Attendees benefited from health screenings, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments, physiotherapy sessions, and personalised consultations conducted by students and lecturers from MK FMHS. The event promoted a holistic approach to healthcare while providing valuable insights into healthy living.

UTAR Medical Week 4.0 successfully strengthened the connection between UTAR and the community, demonstrating the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting healthier lifestyles.

Ribbon-cutting session (second from left): Dr Yan, Dr Shwe Sin, Prof Goi, Prof Thong and Mr Lam

Front row, third from left:  Dr Muhammad Noh Zulfikri, Dr Yan, Prof Goi, Prof Thong, Prof Lee and Mr Lam

UTAR Medical Week 4.0 committee members leading Prof Goi and Prof Thong on a tour of the rooms and labs at MK FMHS

MK FMHS students providing service to the community