PPAACCEEMMAAKKEERR 22002222//22002233 PA C E M A K E R 2022/2023
PPAACCEEMMAAKKEERR 22002222//22002233 PA C E M A K E R 2022/2023
FOREWORDS MEET THE TEAM MEDSOC EXCO EVENTS INTERVIEW DEAN LISTERS HIGHLIGHTS CLASS OF 2023 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Boundaries – the invisible lines that define our personal space, our values, and our limits. They are crucial for maintaining healthy day-to-day relationships, nurturing personal growth, yet also to protect our emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Our boundaries are constantly challenged on the daily, be it through tasks, deadlines, patients and even our own loved ones. It is our reality that certain circumstances are beyond our control. However, what is within our realm is how we choose to react in these situations. As students, you are constantly pushed to your limits – but you must face it head on in stride. Always take a moment to pause and reflect, think about how your actions may be able to positively resolve a particular problem without diminishing the autonomy of another. Our students have accomplished so much this year, evident by the numerous achievements awarded and events hosted including ERASE, iMICROBE23, MUNUS, etc. In the field of science and medicine, it is and always will be our ongoing mission to advance further. It is our persistence on bettering the world through our work that will impact society, even though we may never see nor recognize it in our lifetime. The actions and words that you choose to do and share can impact a person’s life – one is better than none. I believe that it is important for us, as individuals and as a society, to keep learning, innovating and evolving to ensure our own personal growth and the continuous development of our society for future generations. Change is uncomfortable. It will be met with resistance and distrust. It is essential that we stay true to our personal core values. We must continue to have faith and conviction in the kindness of people, in hopes that their minds will eventually be accepting to pioneering, boundary changing ideas. Embrace the power of boundaries, and witness your personal growth soaring to new heights. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Chief Editor, Aleeya Natasya, and the team behind PACEMAKER 2022/2023 for their immense creativity, and endless hours and diligence in ensuring the success of this year’s magazine. Also, many thanks to everyone who have supported and contributed to this issue in your own way. I hope you can look back at this year’s magazine in the future and be reminded of the path you have taken to get to where you are. Associate Prof. Dr. Muhammad Fazril Mohamad Razif Department of Molecular Medicine Faculty of Medicine University of Malaya It is my sincerest pleasure to welcome all students, staff and alumni once again to PACEMAKER, the Official Student Magazine of the UM Faculty of Medicine. After 2 years of uncertainty and instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been heartening and encouraging to witness normalcy re-emerging back into our daily lives both on and off campus. I am honoured to have been selected by the editorial team to be the Advisor for this year’s edition. The articles featured in this edition of PACEMAKER were written during the 2022-2023 academic year. So come take a journey with us through an outstanding, memorable and unforgettable year. ADVISOR’S FOREWORD
MEET THE TEAM MEET THE TEAM
husna aalleeeeyyaa yyeehhoonngg ali yi le ray Editor-inchief Editor Editor Editor Editor hhuuii mmiinn Editor aaiissyyaahh designer designer
MEDSOC EXCO MEMBERS MMEEDDSSOOCC EXCO MMEEMMBBEERRSS MMEEDDSSOOCC EXCO MMEEMMBBEERRSS MEDSOC EXCO MEMBERS
High Committee Wong Khai Hsin, Afiqah Najihah, Jeffrey Tee Wei Yang, Priyanka A/P Sekaran, Muhammad Azad Iman, Muhammad Amir Haziq, Muhammad Adam Fareez
[image] [image] outreach and advocacy SMAMMS DEPARTMENT Awangku Haziq Fadli, Sanggari A/P Subramaniam, Aina Nazatul, Nur Nabihah, Gunn Wei Xue Your paragraph text
[image] SURGERY Interest Group PAEDIATRICS INTEREST GROUP Amanda Leong Weng Yee, Hoo Zi Xin Abiezer Shannio Anak Abeng, Lakshmi Narayani A/P Valliyappan
[image] Strategy and development SOCIAL AND WELL-BEING Khairul Ameen bin Mohamad Sabri Rahul Raj A/L Suraj, Nicholas Ng Jian Shen, Ganga Rubini A/P G. Sangal
[image] ACADEMICS AND CAREER PLANNING sales, fundraising and sponsorship Lam Xian Jun, Tan Min Yen, Nur Qistina Adyra, Abdullah bin Abd Shukor, Jaclyn Asha Joseph Suvertha Murugalah, Akmal Mukhlis, Ke Jo Ann, Lim Dickson
[image] media and publicity [image] Liaison Officers Law Shuan Ning, Elizabeth Goh Hooi Yang, Puujaa Elanggovan, Aleeya Natasha Lee Han Hwa, John Long Yung En, Ameera Nailya, Wang Xin Yue, Tiong Yu Sean
an with Dr. Adriana
How did reality differ from your expectations of life as a houseman? Being a houseman in Malaysia is more than just clinical work. I expected a busy schedule due to the heavy patient load. But a bulk of our time is also spent on administrative work such as dealing with SOCSO and suppliers, writing letters, speaking to admin or finance departments to settle patients’ payment before proceeding with investigations, making photocopies of forms for ward use and the list goes on. Not forgetting the more physical tasks such as pushing patients for x-rays. It’s not merely ward rounds and attending to patients. It’s everything else in between. Do you think the new shift system has lessened the experience you gain as a houseman? Are there any changes that you believe should be made to the current system? If I could change anything, I would change the tagging hours. Currently, tagging for each posting lasts about 2 weeks and ends at 10pm (not including the hours you come earlier to prepare for rounds and going back later than you’re supposed to). And once you’ve off-tagged, you’re allowed to work night shifts. I believe one works and learns better when they are well rested, as proven in many studies. And seeing that we will be working night shifts, I would shorten the tagging hours and also include night shift tagging as well. Quality over quantity. If we don't trust a tired pilot with a flight, do we then trust a sleep deprived doctor with our body?
What is your most memorable experience so far working as a houseman? So many! Housemanship was not easy but I definitely had a good and exciting time. The anxiety of beginning new postings and taggings. The stress of arranging the schedule and trying to do good by your colleagues and bosses. That feeling when your superiors trust you enough with procedures/tasks/working alone. The small sense of achievement and how you just surprise yourself with what you could do with so little time and so many issues. The times when you ‘goreng’ your way out to get that scan for your patient. I also remember when I ran to the wards upstairs to look for extra milk for this gentleman (who had a recent procedure done and can only drink milk) to bring home so he doesn't come in with hypoglycemia again - the times you go extra and beyond for your patients. All the good and the bad times, I cherish them all. Not to forget was the incident that made you realise that you are now a real medical professional, and no longer just a medical student? What are your thoughts/opinions on the current issues surrounding contract doctors? IfHonestly, much has been said and proposed, yet there is still much to be done. Not just contract doctors issue per se, but the healthcare system overall. All stemming from chronic underfunding and poor resource distribution. Many left and many will continue to leave and I am honestly afraid for the people. I salute our comrades in the system giving their all for the rakyat everyday.
EVENTSEVENTS
The dawn of the HIV epidemic in the 1980s halted humanity at an inflection point as HIV was viewed as an endgame upon diagnosis. A retrospective review uncovers a lethal and silent constant that has perpetuated throughout time – stigma and discrimination. Eradicate AIDS and Stigma for Equality (ERASE) is an annual flagship and community-oriented event under the University of Malaya Medical Society (UM MEDSOC) that is dedicated to raising awareness on this topic, eliminating deeply rooted prejudice towards the HIV & AIDS community, and advocating for an equitable access to healthcare across societies. ERASE Eradicate AIDS & Stigma for Equality (ERASE) 2022/2023 In accordance with our mission, ERASE 2022/2023 returned with an array of virtual and physical campaigning initiatives. Together with the ERASE committee, we also had the involvement of key stakeholders who have relentlessly been at the forefront of improving the HIV & AIDS community’s wellbeing. These include Prof Raja Iskandar, keynote speaker and the president of the Malaysian AIDS Council; Dr Wong Pui Li and Dr Anjanna Kukreja, our project advisors; Mr Andrew, the president of Kuala Lumpur AIDS Support Services (KLASS), Pink Triangle (PT) Foundation, Centre for Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), and the Standing Committee of Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights including HIV & AIDS (SCORA); Mr Jeremy Tan, a youth HIV advocate, with vast experiences in HIV education and youth capacity-building efforts. Written by: Natalie Eng
In our pursuit to raise funds for the Infectious Diseases Unit of Universiti Malaya Medical Center (UMMC), several fundraisers were organised to garner proceeds that would be allocated for HIV testing and second-line treatment fees for underprivileged patients. With generous donations and support from the public, a total of RM2100 was raised through crowdfunding and merchandise sales. We accomplished a three-week long virtual campaign spanning across the themes of Overview on HIV & AIDS, Public Advocacy, and Comprehensive Sexual Education. In the Myth Busting Series, we incorporated our very own survey data on the public’s perception towards HIV & AIDS so that we were able to correct any misperceptions in a focused manner. Ultimately, I would like to personally express my gratitude towards our organising committee for their dedication and commitment throughout our campaign period. All in all, we hope our audience left having imbibed a revitalised mindset and purposeful stride in contributing towards the betterment and wellbeing of the HIV & AIDS community, and that ERASE 22/23 has set a precedence in our roles as citizens in the global effort to end HIV & AIDS related stigma and discrimination. A physical event was held at Kompleks Perdana Siswa (KPS), Universiti Malaya on the 18th of March 2023, which was officiated and graced by Prof Tengku Shahrizal, the Deputy Dean of Student Affairs of the Faculty of Medicine. The event recorded a total traffic of 135 participants who engaged in various event segments (auditorium sessions/ booths/ interactive sessions). Our interactive booth sessions were coupled with station games aimed to raise awareness through active involvement. To encourage learning, we also prepared educational booths together with members of SCORA and KLASS. Additionally, free health screening and HIV & Syphilis screening were provided by the UMMC Public Health Department and PT Foundation respectively.
As the director of FAMEDLY, I had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable journey of first-year students. The event's highlight was undoubtedly their unwavering dedication and the bonds they formed through countless nighttime practices. Seeing the seniors' gestures of support was heartwarming, from treating the first-year students to a meal to going above and beyond to ensure their wellbeing. These acts of kindness provided the freshies with an atmosphere of warmth and familiality. FAMEDLY Hosting FAMEDLY 2022/23 was a whirlwind experience. FAMEDLY, an event that takes place annually during first-year orientation, is a delightful wordplay that cleverly combines the terms ‘family’ and ‘medicine.’ This playful pun carries a touch of irony as it humorously suggests that you're likely to encounter familiar faces within the medical field in the coming years. Incorporating the term ‘family’ evokes a sense of unity, strengthens the bond among colleagues, as well as highlights the camaraderie that can develop within the medical community. Initially scheduled for October 11 to October 15, it was regrettably postponed to October 31 until November 5 due to unforeseen circumstances. Despite the challenges, the event proved to be a resounding success, benefitting all who participated. FAMEDLY The purpose of FAMEDLY is elegantly straightforward - to provide an introductory experience for first-year students, enabling them to gain a profound understanding of the medical field. Beyond that, it aims to cultivate meaningful connections among attendees, fostering genuine interactions and allowing individuals to get to know one another. The event embraces the power of unity as second-year students serve as facilitators, creating a rich tapestry of connections and providing a platform for mentorship and guidance. Written by: Annabelle Ju Zhen Yi
Truthfully, I am filled with gratitude and pride over our journey together. The shared experiences, forged bonds, and triumph over challenges have left an indelible mark on my heart. The dedication and enthusiasm of the freshmen, the unwavering support of the seniors, and the collective effort of the entire team made FAMEDLY 2022/23 an event to be remembered. With a mix of joy and nostalgia, I now pass the torch to the next person who will take on the director role. May they continue to carry the spirit of FAMEDLY forward, fostering unity, igniting passion, and creating cherished memories for future generations. All in all, FAMEDLY 2022/23 will always hold a special place in my heart. Reflecting on the event, an important lesson emerged - the significance of open recruitment for additional facilitators to join the planning committee. In hindsight, our team experienced exhaustion due to a lack of manpower. Nonetheless, I am immensely proud of my team for navigating the stressful week with resilience and determination. This experience highlighted the importance of proactively seeking support and involving others to lighten the workload and enhance the overall outcome. One particularly memorable aspect of FAMEDLY 2022/23 was the night ceremony. The first-year students poured their hearts into making it a success, working tirelessly throughout the week despite sudden venue changes and increased manpower needs. The resounding laughter and applause from the audience was a testament to the fruitful outcome of their efforts. Witnessing the culmination of their hard work and the joy it brought was an enriching experience.
AIM 2023 An Insight into Medicine An Insight into Medicine, more fondly known as AIM, is an annual programme organized for pre-medical students under the University of Malaya Medical Society. After two years of limited online interactions, AIM 2023 made a comeback as a one-day physical event consisting of workshops, talks and multiple interactive activities aimed towards empowering pre-medical students who are keen to learn more about medicine. AIM 2023 was held at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya under the radiating sun of 19th of March 2023 (Saturday). We hosted approximately 230 participants, ranging from high school to pre-university students from all over West Malaysia. The objectives of the event include allowing participants to attain an indepth look at life in different stages of the medical field, from its challenges to its gratifications; learn about the process and criteria as well as gain tips on how to enter medical school; build connections with other aspiring doctors, medical students and those in the medical field. edicine . An Insight into Medicine . An Insight into Medicine . An Insight into Medicine . An Insight into MeWritten by: Hwong Jin Lok
Acting as a double-edged sword, AIM is also a fundraising programme whereby 100% of the earnings will be contributed towards financing Baktisiswa, a community outreach project aimed at providing medical assistance and education to people in rural areas with limited access to healthcare. Numerous talks, workshops and tours were conducted throughout the event, with the highlight activities being Who’s the Silent Killer (a blood pressure-taking session) and Explore FOM! (a tour around the faculty and its pathology museum). “To all our dear participants, we hope that AIM has given you all enough insight into medicine for you to have a clear aim in the future.” These last words of AIM director’s speech mark the end of AIM 2023. By the end of the day, the committee was impressed by the fiery spirit and burning passion of youngsters towards medicine. nsight into Medicine . An Insight into Medicine . An Insight into Medicine . An Insight into Medicine . An In
MMEEDDGGAALLAA On the 6th of January 2023, the University of Malaya Medical Society (UM MEDSOC) hosted Med Gala 2023, themed ‘Glitz and Glam’, at the HGH Convention Centre. The aim of the event was to strengthen the bonds between students from diverse backgrounds, and showcase their talents through performances. The event nurtured well-rounded and talented students. A merry 350 guests attended, including medical, dental, biomedical science, and nursing students. Med Gala 2023 was graciously sponsored by Amboss and BookDoc. Written by: Lim Yee En
The photo booth in particular was a fanfavourite, allowing guests to take fun and memorable pictures with friends and loved ones. The lucky draw was also a hit, with winners walking away with fantastic prizes. If there is anything to improve on, it is more photo booths, just so the guests would not have to queue for long! The event was a blast, with many exciting activities to keep the guests engaged throughout the night. The performances were top-notch, with dazzling displays of skill. The dance floor was always packed with guests grooving to the beat of the music and having a great time. Overall, the event was a resounding success and left everyone with unforgettable memories of a night full of joy and excitement. May the splendour of Med Gala 2023 serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring the Faculty of Medicine of Universiti Malaya to continue this glorious tradition for years to come.
iMICROBE'23 was a one-day microbiology competition that took place on the 11th of March 2023. Hungry for both knowledge and victory, the four of us – Owen Woo Tsen Wen, Tee Ray Xiang, Justin Khor Lheng How and Nicholas Ng Jian Shen – headed to USIM, proudly representing our beloved Universiti Malaya. Fresh off our RSA 1 papers, and with weeks of preparation under our belt, we walked in with the ever humble – or perhaps liability-waiving – outlook of, "no matter what happens, we're here to learn." Opponent after opponent, question after question, we conquered the first and second rounds. Not only did we make it through to the semi-finals, but we’d also made it to the top of the list. Although, just as spontaneous mutations and novel variants demand adaptation, the competition demanded more. The buzzer-round semi-final was challenging, as we faced off against the brightest minds and fastest fingers the nation's medical schools had to offer. Every microdetail was tested; every microsecond counted. This was when the largest takeaway from the whole experience was made clear to me. Told you we were hungry for knowledge The competition was hot and stiff, forcing us to rack our brains – perhaps enough to raise suspicion of meningococcal meningitis – but our team rose to the occasion. PS. Notice anything strange? This small oopsie by the design team was on everyone’s neck on the competition day. MEGA MICROBALL MINDS FOREVER! Written by: Owen Woo Tsen Wen
All in all, this does warrant a lumbar puncture, as our mental status was certainly altered when faced with the buzzer. But at least we can look forward to a lifetime of not just learning, but learning together. A special shoutout to Justin, Ray, Nicholas, Dr Maria, and the many lecturers who taught us throughout. Together, by way of positive competition, the different teams facilitated each other's learning. And if you continue to zoom out, on every level, what you will see is an astounding honeycomb-like image of people on their own learning journeys, supporting each other any way possible. Truly, no man (or woman :D) is an island. Let’s celebrate microwins! Considering its name, microbiology is an exceptionally large subject. Learning by yourself is a daunting task. Thus, the four of us embarked on this journey together, helping each other learn along the way. During the competition, we met other people who were on their own learning journeys.
Baktisiswa is an annual project conducted by the University of Malaya's Medical Society (UM MEDSOC). It is a student-run community outreach program that focuses on engaging, empowering, and educating the rural community, particularly the indigenous people. The prime goal is to serve as a bridge across communities with different histories, cultures, and backgrounds, while also advocating for health awareness and consolidating our practical skills as students. To ensure that the actual issues that shackled and burdened the community will be tackled, site surveys were organised prior to the actual visit. The issues that we managed to identify were mostly related to inadequate infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and lack of opportunities for further studies. In addition, the community also faced common healthcare problems prevalent in rural areas, including poor hygiene awareness, malnutrition, as well as zoonotic diseases such as malaria. Apart from chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus, many villagers also had eye diseases and vision loss due to long-term sunlight exposure, as they are mostly rubber tappers. During the previous tenure, Baktisiswa 2022 visited Rancangan Pengumpulan Semula (RPS) Pos Betau, which is home to a large community of Semai people. The program lasted for four days, from the 30th of September to the 3rd of October in 2022 with a total of 88 Year 1 & 2 UM medical students participating as the organising committee. BBAAKKTTIISSIISSWWAA‘22 Written by: Jeffrey Tee Wei Yang
On the actual visit, numerous activities were conducted with the villagers, all revolving around themes of health awareness, education, and cultural exchange. As medical students, the main contribution was providing free health screenings and education for the indigenous community. A day of health screening was conducted at the school, followed by house-to-house screenings in the more distant kampungs on subsequent days. A total of 208 villagers were screened, advised on nutrition, hand hygiene, sexual reproductive health, smoking cessation, and other case-bycase issues. Additionally, motivational talks were conducted and the participants also had fun, interactive classes with the children, aiming to inspire their curiosity and improve their interest in pursuing further studies. The committee also organized a cultural night where our team performed Indian traditional dances, wushu, Tarian Endang, and sang for the Orang Asli. The children of the local school also performed their traditional dance - Tarian Sewang and the participants had the opportunity to learn the basic steps of the art.
“As medical students, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the community, engaging, educating, and empowering them with basic health knowledge. We also reached out to children and schools, involving them in fun and inspiring educational programs. While having a great time, we also experienced learning medicine from the very people who define our career - the community itself,” said Jeffrey Tee Wei Yang, Director of Baktisiswa 2022. Furthermore, the Orang Asli organized a lifestyle exhibition showcasing their way of life. The participants also partook in a foster family program, visiting the villagers and sharing meals together while learning about their daily routines, struggles, history, and culture. Projects like this serve as a reminder of our privilege and the need to address social issues and community barriers. Utmost gratitude is expressed to the Faculty of Medicine, UM, as well as the various parties and local authorities who recognize the importance and impact of this project and have supported it year after year. Volunteers may not always have the time to contribute, but we always have the heart to do so.
It was a fortune to be chosen as one of the participants to join the Intervarsity Surgical Based Quiz held at Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak. It was a one-day event held on the 11th of March 2023, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There was a participation of 15 teams from different universities, each team consisting of three medical students. Thus, a total of 45 students participated in the competition. I was intrigued when I saw there were even international participants from Indonesia joining as our competitors. The objectives of this competition were to encourage healthy competition and enhance knowledge of surgical-based disciplines among undergraduate medical students. Besides that, this competition also aimed to foster friendships and future collaborations among participating universities. I would say the final round of the competition was the highlight of the event in which the best 8 teams competed against each other. It was held in the form of balloting questions and the participants had to answer vocally. To be frank, it was nervewracking. INTERVARSITY SURGICAL BASED QUIZ I S B Q
I got a lot of support from my team as it was my first time joining a competition like this. Juggling between preparation for the competition and our end-of-posting exams, we did not have ample time to prepare extensively and it somehow seemed impossible to even win a prize on the event day itself. However, we were beyond grateful to have lecturers from different surgical-based disciplines who were willing to provide guidance and even shared the happiness of winning second place with us. I hope we made them proud. “It always seems impossible until it's done” - Nelson Mandela There were three of us: Qun Ya, Qisti, and myself, representing our beloved university to participate in this competition. I would like to give my teammates the credit they deserve because without them, I could not have made it to the end. That is for sure. I am truly happy and proud to see how we progressed from mere acquaintances to the close friends we are today. Teamwork makes the dream work. We might not be the champions of this competition, but we did have fun throughout this unique experience. I believe that is the most important lesson my team and I gained.
The profound relationship between the University of Malaya (UM) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) has been established since the olden days. In the past, UM-NUS Games (MUNUS) was one of the main events strengthening the bond between the medical societies of both schools. The annual event symbolises medical students as holistic individuals who are active in not only academics but also sports and games. However, it was discontinued due to unavoidable reasons, one of them being the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, to revive this meaningful connection, the medical societies of both schools agreed to reinstitute MUNUS. NUS was the home ground for this highly anticipated event in June 2023. Roughly 200 students from both schools participated in the event. On 2nd June, Team UM kicked off their journey with a simple but meaningful opening ceremony at Dewan Tunku Canselor. Prof. Dr. Shahrul Bahyah Kamaruzzaman, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yazid Jalaludin, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khairul Azmi Abd Kadir were present to flag off the team. Team UM were in high spirits and all ready to face the challenges ahead.
Taking advantage of the presence of both medical societies, a life-sharing session was also conducted on 4th June. It was enlightening as students from both schools were able to discuss and exchange opinions on challenges, lifestyles, and cultures surrounding their capacities as medical students. On 3rd June, preliminary rounds of badminton, ultimate frisbee, football, volleyball, basketball, and netball commenced, followed by the final rounds of each sport on the same day. Teams from both schools showcased excellent sportsmanship. With the UM emblem on their chests, Team UM competed courageously. Kudos to all the winners for their triumphant achievements! It was definitely a long but fulfilling day. After the games, the NUS students graciously hosted the UM team for a night outing to selected tourist attractions, including the Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Esplanade, and ArtScience Museum. The night brilliantly ended with the participants enjoying Spectra - A Light and Water Show. It was such a memorable experience for all.
In a nutshell, MUNUS Games 2023 was deemed a success and surpassed the targets and expectations set upon it. The relationship between UM and NUS was consolidated. We could finally say, “We do not only have friends, we have families.” The event proceeded with a sharing session between the executive committee of both medical societies. It was an eye-opener for most, especially when given the opportunity to exchange ideas on improvement in various aspects. Simultaneously, Team UM went on a faculty tour led by NUS representatives. A simple but memorable closing ceremony was carried out at the lecture hall, marking the end of the event. UM MEDSOC would like to thank the top management of the Faculty of Medicine for their support, our resourceful advisors, Dr. Ahmad Hazwan bin Ahmad Shushami and Dr. Muhammad Kashani bin Mohd Kamil, our committee members for their relentless effort, and our athletes for their commitment and fighting spirit.
MEDICAL PROSPECT: SPOTLIGHTING THE DILEMMA Written by: Tan Wei Zhen ‘Gathering of The Great Minds (GOTGM)’ i s an annual flagship event organi zed by the Univer s iti Malaya Medical Society (UM MEDSOC). Unlike other project s , GOTGM allows it s organi z ing committee to think out s ide the box when choos ing it s theme. Over the year s , GOTGM has delved into a variety of topics , both medical and nonmedical. The theme for GOTGM 2023 was, ‘Medical Prospect: Spotlighting the Dilemma.’ The objective was to empower medical students with the latest updates regarding healthcare and ongoing issues contributing to the migration of skilled medical professionals overseas, commonly referred to as ‘brain drain.’ The focus has been on the challenges faced by contract doctors. Furthermore, the event was elevated by a collaboration with the Malaysian Medical Summit (MMS), organized by the Malaysian Medics International (MMI), resulting in the hosting of an event titled “The Fusion Summit: Emerging Visions”. The two-day event, held on the 15th and 16th of July, took place in the Clinical Auditorium of the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, with 120 participants. The event was commenced by YB Dr. Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, special advisor to the Minister of Health. He delivered the keynote speech titled “Brain Drain: An Ongoing Dilemma”. Given his involvement in policy-making, his insightful talk encouraged attendees to consider not only the perspective of healthcare providers but also the challenges faced by policymakers in devising strategies to address the issues of contract doctors and brain drain.
Throughout the first day, many engaging sessions were arranged for the audience, including an introduction to emergency medicine, an emergency simulation workshop, and a forum discussing the experiences of housemanship in tertiary versus non-tertiary hospitals. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the emergency simulation workshop, where participants had the opportunity to practice emergency procedures such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, intubation, and spinal injury management. The forum featured Dr. Tan, known for his humor and talks that have earned him popularity among students. The second day commenced with a session on the synergy between disaster and military medicine, followed by a research talk and competition. The highlight of the day was the radiology workshop, where participants learned how to use ultrasound machines for conducting FAST scans. The event concluded with a session on crafting a memoranda, whereby participants discussed and presented their ideas on tackling brain drain. We hope that through this event, participants are more aware of the current healthcare situation to better prepare for the future, on top of learning about emergency medicine and radiology. Most importantly, we would like to thank each and every committee member for making GOTGM 2023 a success and bringing it to greater heights. "Issues surrounding healthcare providers are multifaceted; it's time we adopt diverse perspectives and approach them pragmatically."
Surgical Competence and Proficiency Enhancement Learning Scheme (SCALPELS) Phase 1, held on May 13th at the University of Malaya's examination hall by the University of Malaya Medical Society, was a remarkable event that left a long-lasting impression. In collaboration with the Standing Committee on Medical Education (SCOME), this workshop aimed to enhance the surgical skills and knowledge of its 60 participants, all eager to excel in their field. The event's objective was to foster a deep understanding of surgical techniques, patient care, and teamwork, emphasizing that, "teamwork makes the dream work." This very first phase specifically covers suturing techniques and wound dressing to kickstart the participants’ surgical knowledge. S C A L P E L S S C A L P E L S
S C A L P E L S S C A L P E L S As this is the University of Malaya’s first surgical skills workshop, I’m really honored that a lot of participants came and joined us. The atmosphere was alive with curiosity; questions flowed freely and discussions ignited. It's clear that the true goal of this workshop extends beyond the mastery of basic surgical techniques; it's about kindling the flame of interest in the field of surgery itself. I would never have been able to host this workshop successfully without the help of my team. Their unwavering support, from fulfilling every request to meticulously handling every detail, was instrumental in making this workshop a resounding success. A heartfelt shoutout to this exceptional team, whose dedication and hard work have left an indelible mark on the future of surgical education at the University of Malaya. The opening ceremony, graced by the presence of our esteemed dean, Prof. Dr. April Camilla Roslani, set the tone for a day of learning and growth. Renowned surgeons, such as Dr. Margaret Leo from Sunway Medical Centre and Dr. Kong Chee Kwan, led engaging sessions, providing invaluable insights into the world of surgery. SCALPELS Phase 1 undoubtedly proved to be a vital platform for aspiring surgeons to sharpen their skills and collaborate effectively in their pursuit of excellence.
ACADEMICS & CAREER PLANNING ACADEMICS & CAREER PLANNING Academic & Career Planning UM MEDSOC ACP RE S E A R H WORKS HOP S ERI E S 2 0 2 3 On June 23rd, 2023, our inaugural Research Workshop held at The Cube, Faculty of Medicine, proved to be a pivotal experience that seamlessly blended the realms of academia, leadership, and student engagement. The event, executed from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., saw the successful participation of 60 eager attendees. The idea of the workshop came from the realisation that many medical students — despite the inherently research-centric nature of the medical field — lack foundational research knowledge. This underscores the need to facilitate collaborative learning and provide guidance for their research journey, especially before they venture into their research electives. It also provided an opportunity for participants to pose queries to knowledgeable researchers and gain insights from seasoned peers. Organising the event was daunting yet exciting. The initial hurdle of selecting compelling speakers was overcome through meticulous curation, resulting in a program that spurred valuable discussions. Fortunately, we had a great team planning this workshop. In conclusion, the research workshop fulfilled our research bureau’s vision to contribute to the growth of academic knowledge. It emphasised the importance of effective planning, collaboration, and adaptability in achieving success in such endeavours. We look forward to potentially organising future workshops that facilitate the advancement of research among medical students. Participants partook in thought-provoking discussions, networked, presented their research ideas, and engaged in a sharing session with senior medical students. It was gratifying to witness the exchange of ideas and connections forged among the participants. They also discovered their common interests and opportunities for potential collaborations after listening to the ideas and experiences shared by the seniors. Written by: Tan Min Yen
ACADEMICS & CAREER PLANNING ACADEMICS & CAREER PLANNING Academic & Career Planning UM MEDSOC ACP OT H ER PROJ ECT S 60S CHAL L ENGE acp_ummedsoc PRE -CL I N IC A L CL I N IC A L CASE -BY-CASE BASICS M ED ON AIR PODCAST Med on Air UM MEDSOC C A RE ER PL A N N I N G
TThhee MMeennttaall MMiirraaccllee PPrroojjeecctt The Mental Miracle Project The Mental Miracle Project, an initiative by the Sports and Social Activities department of the Social and Well-being bureau, in collaboration with the Mental Health Unit of Outreach and Advocacy bureau, was led by me and supported by my dedicated and hardworking members. The workshop aimed to address persistent mental health issues among medical students. Our main challenge in initiating the workshop was clear: mental health discussions can be common and cliché, due to frequent discussions about the topic on various platforms. Thus, why attend such an event when you can watch videos on mental health from the comfort of your house? This prompted us to delve deeper into the specific issues faced by medical students. Armed with a list of common issues, we conducted a survey among the students of our faculty. At the forefront of the list was something initially unfamiliar to me - imposter syndrome. For those unfamiliar with it, imposter syndrome is the feeling of being out of place due to one's perceived shortcomings or inability to cope. Further research revealed that many of my peers, including myself, were affected by imposter syndrome. Recognizing this, my team and I decided to focus on this topic for the Mental Miracle Project. by: Rahul Raj Suraj After extensive discussions, the committee developed a comprehensive plan to make the workshop engaging and worthwhile.
The activities included a sharing session by speakers who also served as project advisors, scenario discussions and presentations by participants, My Anonymous Pen Pal, Expectations vs Reality, and Compare and Contrast. Each activity was carefully planned by the activity team and vetted by advisors to ensure they aligned with the event's main goal of addressing mental health issues among medical students. I am immensely grateful for the attention and participation the event received. I hope that similar events can be held annually, as we need to unite to break the stigma surrounding mental health among students and provide a platform for students to learn how to address their concerns. I also hope that each of us is willing to extend a helping hand to anyone experiencing mental pressure, creating a supportive environment for everyone. Before concluding, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to UM MEDSOC for giving me the opportunity to host the Mental Miracle Project. I would also like to thank my head of department, Nicholas, and every committee member of the event for consistently supporting me and working hard together to make this event meaningful.
Iftar Together was held at Centerpoint on the 17th of April, on the sacred 27th night of the holy month of Ramadan. Our main event sponsor was Masjid Ar-Rahman, which graciously sponsored meals for 200 people. The event objectives were to educate participants about the importance and benefits of fasting during Ramadan, as well as to provide the experience of breaking their fast together. On top of that, the event provided an opportunity for crosscultural discussions about fasting and iftar among medical students from various ethnicities. The event was lively, attended by more than 200 medical students, and graced by the presence of UM MEDSOC’s high committee and advisor, Prof Madya. Dr. Khairul Azmi Bin Abd Kadir. The highlights of the event were when everyone gathered around to break their fast together, as well as the photobooth which was set up to bring more excitement to the joyful event. It was such a valuable experience, with many participants becoming more educated on the rituals of different religions. Overall, it was a productive and delightful event. Iftar TTooggeetthheerr Iftar Together
Outreach & Advocacy Outreach & Advocacy This programme’s main aim is to equip teenagers with the tools to overcome youth challenges, priming them into resilient and confident individuals. With 60 Yayasan Chow Kit students and 20 UM MEDSOC volunteers, we set out to make a difference. PROJ EK M ENGE JAR I M PIAN In two impactful events held on the 21st of May and the 8th of July 2023, we joined forces with the Sexual & Reproductive Health sub-bureau and YES Alumni Malaysia to empower Yayasan Chow Kit teenagers. Our mission unfolded at KL Krash Pad and the University of Malaya respectively. The main highlights of the programme include an informative and engaging gallery walk at Yayasan Chow Kit, where students had the opportunity to learn about crucial aspects of well-being, as well as an exhilarating kayaking session across the University of Malaya’s infamous lake. In summary, our mission can be encapsulated in one quote: ‘Dreams are within reach for all, with belief and effort’. Written by: Awangku Haziq Fadli Bin Awangku Masparbu
Outreach & Advocacy Outreach & Advocacy BEAUTY INSIDE OUT On the 7th of July 2023, the Outreach and Advocacy Bureau in conjunction with the Paediatrics Society Bureau held an outreach programme at SMK Nilai Impian, Seremban, focusing on physical and mental health as the theme. 40 UM medical students were brought as facilitators to engage with 148 students through interactive games and activities. Dr Chow Soon Ken, a psychiatrist at the University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), was present at the event and gave a talk on mental health issues. We are hopeful that this event was a well-executed initiative to introduce a healthconscious lifestyle to younger generations. With active participation by the students as well as the tremendous effort by the vibrant committee of UM Medical Society members, the event was indeed fruitful and memorable for all those involved. Written by: Nur Nabihah binti Mohamad Zaini
DEAN'S LISTERS DE ’ AN'S LISTERS’ TIPS & GUIDES SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL EDITION
“Frankly, there is no most efficient way of studying. Everyone has their preferred study methods. It does take time for us to look for the study method that is best suited for us, which can be tough sometimes. A few of the study methods that the people around me use are spaced repetition using Anki, online resources and videos like Osmosis and Ninja Nerd, reading textbooks or just solely lecture notes. Personally, I use lecture notes as my main guide and make some notes when needed. I also refer to online resources when I come across uncertain things. Bear in mind to not compare yourself with your peers. You have your way and that is the way. “ “For me, I like to use the Feyman technique, which is where you try to explain to yourself as simply as possible concepts that you’ve learned. I realized by simplifying things, it not only helps you understand, it also helps you to remember for a longer time as well. I have a problem with remembering things, so what I also like to do is this method called active recall, where I actively recall concepts and things which I’ve learned before, especially anatomy which tends to be a bit more challenging for the memory.” DEAN'S L ISTERS’ TIPS & GUIDES Joel Imbert Nesan A/L Danny Nesan MBBS 20/25 What are your most efficient study methods? Tee Ray Xiang MBBS 21/26 “Two things. First, is to get enough sleep. Second, to incorporate play into my daily routine. For me, sleep is very important because it allows me to concentrate more when I study and retain information better. I make sure that I get at least 6 hours of sleep every day. Other than sleep, incorporating play into my study routine is crucial because it allows me to take a break from studying, to recharge, so that I can focus more when I resume studying.” Ching Woon Hin MBBS 20/25 “Actually for my pre-clinical years, I tried a few study methods. The first one was trying to draw mind maps for each and every single lecture that I go through every day, but afterwards I found that it was quite time consuming. I tried to use Notion to make notes but I think the most effective method is to form a study group with a few friends. Those include my PBL mates and other batchmates. We gather every Friday to discuss the lectures that we have gone through each week to share with each other the mind maps during year 1 and Notion in year 2. I think it is a very efficient way, but the most important thing is to recall the knowledge that you have learned whether in written form or through typing it out.” Pon Xhao Juan MBBS 20/25