In 2023, the Health Ministry highlighted two major categories of health challenges: those influenced by social and environmental factors and those stemming from the healthcare system itself.
Alongside this, the rising prevalence of non-communicable and metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, remains a critical concern.
As key institutions shaping the future of healthcare, medical schools have a pivotal role in improving healthcare accessibility and outcomes.
Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed) is no exception, playing an instrumental role in improving the local health system through education, research and engagement with the community.
“For example, NUMed actively contributes through community outreach programmes,” said NUMed education research Assoc Prof Dr Kye Mon Min Swe.
“Students and faculty members participate in health awareness campaigns and organise health promotion and health screening activities, which include cancer awareness, HIV awareness and health talks on obesity and other chronic illnesses.”
Prof Dr Pichika Mallikarjuna Rao, research dean at the university, agreed, adding that “NUMed not only trains future healthcare professionals in relevant skills but also instils a deep sense of social responsibility.
“Initiatives such as the World AIDS Day event offer free health screenings, interactive educational sessions and open discussions that have significantly reduced stigma and promoted early detection of HIV/AIDS.
“Similarly, regular outreach programmes like the annual Health Camp deliver essential health services and wellness workshops directly to underserved communities, ensuring that preventive care remains accessible to all.”
These are just a few of the numerous success stories of how NUMed has directly contributed to improved public health, fostering early intervention and nurturing a generation of compassionate, community-focused healthcare providers.
Synergistic collaboration
Faculty-led projects and student volunteer initiatives form the backbone of NUMed’s community impact, working hand-in-hand to transform healthcare outreach in Malaysia.
“Faculty-led efforts provide strategic direction and expert guidance, setting high standards through evidence-based public health programmes and forging critical partnerships with local health agencies and community organisations.
“Complementing this, student volunteer initiatives inject energy and innovation into the field,” Prof Pichika explained.
NUMed researchers are leading Planetary Health research, tackling local and regional challenges while mentoring the next generation of professionals in the field.
Students are also encouraged to contribute to research presentations and publications, which gives them valuable exposure and enhances their experiences. This participation is essential as it equips students with practical skills, promotes critical thinking and reinforces their understanding of medical research principles.
“Additionally, early exposure to research embedded in the curriculum helps cultivate a passion for inquiry, which is vital for developing future leaders in healthcare. Ultimately, involving students in research projects strengthens the link between education and practice, preparing them for successful careers in medicine and healthcare,” shared Kye.
As an international branch campus of Newcastle University, UK, NUMed is part of the Russell Group, which encompasses 24 top research-intensive universities. This provides the university with valuable networking opportunities and collaborations with esteemed institutions and industry partners in the UK and internationally.
“NUMed staff and students can also take advantage of professional development programmes provided by our parent university, such as workshops and seminars, that enhance their research capabilities.
This affiliation enhances the visibility of NUMed's research initiatives and increases access to competitive grants and funding from public and private sources,” Kye added.
Organised by NUMed's Year 5 Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) students, the annual Health Camp allows the university to reach out to local underserved populations.
“Furthermore, as a branch campus of Newcastle University, UK, NUMed benefits from the university’s groundbreaking work in early disease detection and precision medicine, which have transformed treatment protocols in the UK and provided an inspiring model for community health interventions.
“This synergy of advanced research and practical outreach underscores the critical role of medical schools in shaping a healthier future for communities in Malaysia and beyond,” said Prof Pichika.
NUMed is poised to remain a dynamic force in Malaysia’s evolving healthcare landscape by continually integrating academic excellence, innovative research and proactive community engagement.
Through constant curriculum updates, strategic partnerships with local health agencies and international experts, and a commitment to professional development, the university is well-equipped to adapt its contributions to address emerging health issues and ultimately shape a healthier future for Malaysia.
“At NUMed, we are actively pursuing opportunities to secure vital support by engaging with regulators, government bodies, industry stakeholders, philanthropists, international funding agencies, charity organisations, and community groups.
“This comprehensive approach will facilitate the creation of an ecosystem that empowers research to effectively tackle emerging healthcare challenges and deliver lasting benefits to society,” concluded Prof Pichika.
Find out more about its Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS Honours) or BSc (Honours) Biomedical Sciences programme at http://www.newcastle.edu.my, email admissions@newcastle.edu.my, call 07-555 3800, or WhatsApp 011-1231 5411/012-784 9456.
Alternatively, you may also visit its Open Day on May 3. Visit https://www.ncl.ac.uk/numed/study-with-us/get-to-know-us/open-days/ for more details.
