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ARCHIVAL OF THE ARTS: VOLUNTEERING AT ILHAM GALLERY

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ARCHIVAL OF THE ARTS: VOLUNTEERING AT ILHAM GALLERY

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NURWAHIDA BINTI TAJUL ARIFF

A195926

30/8/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Fortunately , yes. My main 3 objectives were to

-Learn and understand the differences in the approach of an artist towards multiple aspects of life and apply it to current daily activities.

-Learn to overcome communication barriers when talking to gallery-goers and foster a more out-going personality.

-Strengthening my art knowledge of the current art scene through a Malaysian perspective.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

Over the course of me volunteering here, I found myself being introspective and more reflective of my behavior and thinking. I appreciated that this project enabled me to pull back from the constant grind of daily life and to just sit back and enjoy the moment. I also loved that by the end of the project, me and the other gallery sitters became close friends who I learn a lot from.

3. What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

The thing that I found challenging was to learn how to approach people. Different people have different thinking and humour, which is what makes humans so complex yet so interesting. Due to the fact that I was a gallery sitter, I had to stop gallery visitors from damaging the artworks which inadvertently thought me on how to handle different types of responses and how to be more assertive over time.

4. What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

I think being put as the gallery sitter really was the perfect move from the gallery manager as we get to try multiple job scopes that positions such as interns and permanent staff wouldn't be able to experience.

5. What can be improved in this project?

One thing I think could've been improved is what was taught to me. I wished I was taught of administrative work and what is involved in managing an exhibition.

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Giving Time, Gaining Wisdom: The Power of Volunteering with Seniors

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Giving Time, Gaining Wisdom: The Power of Volunteering with Seniors

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NUR ADAM HAIKAL BIN HAMDAN

A194890

29 AUGUST 2025

1.⁠ ⁠Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

The three objectives I've set to achieve for myself during this elective posting were gaining experience doing volunteer works especially with the old folks here in this house, contributing positively to the community by offering companionship, assistance, and care to elderly residents,and enhancing my communication skills especially with elderly .

Personally, I believe that I have been able to accomplish all the objectives within this 1 month span of time of me volunteering here at Rumah Seri Kenangan Cheras. This is my very first experience as a volunteer to be doing volunteering work at an old folks home and this has made me more inspired to do more volunteer work in the near future. This is also a milestone for me to sharpen my individual skills as a student who is currently a year 4 medical student in order to treat a patient as a whole.

2.⁠ ⁠What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

Personally throughout this whole EP journey I really enjoyed the process of it. The staff here are really friendly and welcomed us with open arms. This makes me feel a sense of warmth from them. Not to forget the resident that we enjoyed having fun with by becoming their companion in their everyday life, and also both of my dearest friends, Firdaus and Hayati, whom without them, all of my journey here will feel impossible. I really appreciate all the time that I have in Rumah Seri Kenangan Cheras. Ultimately, my journey in this EP is made possible by the help of the staff, residents and both of my friends.

3.⁠ ⁠What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

Honestly speaking, I have never encountered any difficulties in this EP journey. But if i want to name one, maybe it would be the communication with the residents there. Most of the residents there are having difficulties such as speaking, hearing or even seeing. It is a challenge for us on how to adapt to this situation. But as time went by and with the help of the staff also taught us a lot of lessons on how to approach these residents with difficulties. I would say i utilize all of the ability that i have include try to make eye contact, verbal cues, body movement and even using proper intonation when communicating in order to take a grasp on what they are conversing with me and this has made me more clear that by using this technique, i could converse with other resident without trouble.

4.⁠ ⁠What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

All of our activities that we have been planning throughout the month were fully fulfilled and we were really satisfied about it. The basic health monitoring that we have done together for the past 2 weeks have totally paid off. We also alerted the community staff there if we stumble upon an abnormal reading of the residents vital signs, but it turns out everything went smoothly for the 2 weeks. Other than that, we also helped Miss Kobayashi with her daily enrichment activity with the residents, for example, doing colouring activities, solving word cross puzzle, zumba and many more. Next, we also helped out the dining staff at the canteen by serving food to the residents there. We also cleaned the surau, and joined in the programmes and events held by the centre itself. It is safe to say that we are truly committed for the past 4 weeks together in helping out the center as a whole. It was a fun but tiring journey that I have throughout my Elective Posting here in this old folks home. Also I want to give credits to both of my friends for always having my back in every activity that we did together as a team.

5.⁠ ⁠What can be improved in this project?

We realized that we could have benefited from more detailed planning of activities prior to our visit. When we first arrived, we lacked a clear structure for how we wanted to carry out this elective, which resulted in the first few days being less productive as we were still exploring what we should and could do. Nevertheless, I would still consider this elective posting project a success, as it provided us with meaningful experiences. That said, with more thorough preparation and activity planning, the overall impact and outcome could have been even greater.

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ELYSSA VEIRA ANAK MICHAEL LISED

A196308

11-15/08/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes. The main objectives which include exposure to children with cerebral palsy and other developmental disorders, observing therapy sessions, understanding caregivers’ perspectives, and participating in community awareness were achieved.

My objective of gaining personal growth, communication skills, and empathy was also fulfilled.

2. What have I enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

I liked interacting with the children especially since I don't usually get to interact with kids in my day-to-day life.

I also liked the hydrotherapy sessions especially when I myself get to enter the pool with the children because it was such a laid-back activity loved by the patients and a nice way to interact with them.

I am also very much grateful and happy to have been given the chance to interact with and understand children with special needs, particularly those with cerebral palsy.

3. What have I found challenging about the project?

Seeing the children struggle emotionally or physically during the therapy sessions.

Feeling limited in how much I can help.

Adapting to the different needs and behaviours of the children, especially when they cry and refuse to do any part of the therapy, and it's hard to console them.

Managing emotions when hearing the parents' stories.

4. What has really worked?

Learning by observation first, then assisting where appropriate.

The hands-on approach and willingness to ask questions.

Using empathy and active listening to create a safe, supportive atmosphere for both the children and their parents.

Being able to spread awareness for cerebral palsy and during the mall exhibition.

5. What can be improved in this project?

Having clearer assigned roles during therapy sessions might improve efficiency.

More exposure to documentation, therapy planning, or progress tracking could enhance learning.

The exhibition booth could have also been more engaging and eye-catching so that more people from the public would come to our booth.

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ANIS SYUHADA BINTI NOOR AZMAN SHAH

A194612

20/7/2025 - 24/7/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes. Throughout my journey here in Wellness Hub Kuala Muda, I have fulfilled my project objectives successfully. I was exposed to the structure and functions of Wellness Hub as well as the Health Promotion Unit via my project. It was such a huge opportunity to be part of the Wellness Hub team, where I have gained enormous amounts of knowledge from health promotion to program execution. I also felt like I have improved my communication and social skills via my interactions with the participants who came from different backgrounds and ages. It was a great experience to lead a few sessions in the Kelas Warga Emas and iFITER classes.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

I enjoyed being around the participants. I had so much fun assisting them. Their enthusiasm and joy during each session has encouraged me every week to come and have sessions with them. They were highly motivated and eager to have sessions with our team. The iFITER participants were very spirited to lose weight, so every time class they would cheer each other to finish up the exercise. Every session, I could see lots of improvement from them and they were also very encouraging by sharing their tips and tricks to lose weight. Not to forget, the sessions I had with Kelas Warga Emas, they were all so adorable and warm throughout the sessions. They created a very positive atmosphere around each other which helps them stay healthy.

3. What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

The hardest part of this project is to learn new knowledge, especially about the types of exercise that will be done for each session. Because most of the exercises are depending on the program the participants rolled in. Each of the program itself has its own target and the participants themselves are very different in terms of age and ability to execute movement. The exercises done must be suitable and reach the target of the programs. Other than that, I found it a little bit challenging to keep on motivating some of the participants as some of them lose a bit of motivation if they did not notice any changes occurring in them which further caused them to take sessions lightly.

4. What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

From this elective posting, the aspects in me have improved is my communication skills, whereby I finally did not think of it as a challenge. At first, I found it very hard to communicate with elderly , especially when it came to my work at Wellness Hub as I was not very sure of what to do there, but as time goes by, I get used to it and my communication with participants gets easier. By spending some amount of time there, I have managed to improve my communication skills and be able to start communicating with people comfortably. I realized that good communication helps me a lot in many situations. It helps me to guide and lead participants well as they already trust me, it makes me feel included in the Wellness Hub team and motivates me to keep on growing the potential in me. My experience here in Wellness Hub also has opened my eyes to the world of working and the challenges that come with it. It taught me to be more resilient and tolerate situations well.

5. What can be improved in this project?

Apart from this elective posting being as perfect as I imagined, I hope that I was much more brave enough to lead most of the main activities but I acknowledge my limit in knowledge regarding the physical activities. If I were to lead most of the activities, it might not have had any advantages to the participants as I am not as knowledgeable as the coaches there.

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Teaching, Learning, and Growing Together

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Teaching, Learning, and Growing Together

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Zarith Hani Binti Muhammad Zairi

A196874

25/8/2025 - 29/8/2025

1.⁠ ⁠Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, the objectives of the project were achieved. Over the course of the four weeks, I had the chance to be involved in a variety of activities that went beyond traditional learning. From coordinating aid and organizing resources to interacting with children and families during health and educational programs, I was able to witness the impact of our efforts firsthand. These experiences enhanced my understanding of how healthcare, education, and social welfare intersect, and emphasized the importance of collaboration and proactive problem-solving. The project allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings while also fostering empathy, adaptability, and leadership skills, qualities that are essential for a future medical professional.

2.⁠ ⁠What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

This week, what I enjoyed the most about the project was finding great satisfaction in working alongside a team of passionate individuals. Observing how teachers, NGO staff, and healthcare professionals collaborated seamlessly taught me the importance of communication, patience, and teamwork. Each person’s dedication, no matter how small the role, contributed to the success of the project, and being part of that collective effort made me feel proud.

Ultimately, the part I liked most was feeling that my presence and effort had a real, positive impact. The project showed me that healthcare extends far beyond hospitals, and that educating, supporting, and caring for the community is just as important. These moments will stay with me, shaping how I hope to approach my future career as a doctor, not just treating illness, but helping people live healthier, better lives in every way I can.

3.⁠ ⁠What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

I found it challenging to engage effectively with children of varying abilities and personalities during the educational activities. Some were shy or easily distracted, while others required more guidance and attention. It took effort to design activities that were both educational and enjoyable for everyone, and I often had to think on my feet to adapt my approach in the moment. At the same time, coordinating with teachers and team members to ensure smooth sessions added another layer of responsibility. This challenge taught me the importance of patience, creativity, and flexibility, as well as the value of collaboration in overcoming obstacles. By facing these difficulties, I gained confidence in managing diverse tasks and learned that challenges often provide the greatest opportunities for personal growth.

4.⁠ ⁠What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

One of the most successful aspects of the project was the strong sense of teamwork and collaboration. Working alongside fellow students, NGO members, and teachers created an environment where ideas were shared freely and tasks were managed efficiently. I noticed that when everyone supported one another, activities ran smoothly, and even unexpected challenges were easier to overcome. This collaborative approach not only enhanced the outcomes of the sessions but also helped me develop interpersonal skills and learn the value of working together to achieve common goals.

5.⁠ ⁠What can be improved in this project?

This project has been a very valuable learning experience, but I believe there are a few areas that could be improved to make it even more impactful. For example, increasing the visibility of HALUAN by promoting its initiatives through campus presentations, social media campaigns, and student ambassadors could help attract volunteers from different faculties and universities. Students from different institutions could collaborate and contribute, bringing fresh perspectives and expanding the reach and impact of community programs. I am truly grateful to HALUAN for giving me this opportunity.

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Beyond The Classroom: Lessons from Wishesland 

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Beyond The Classroom: Lessons from Wishesland 

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Bathrisyia Claudia Anak Harrykirk, A196265, 30/8/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I feel that the objectives were fulfilled. We managed to raise awareness about cerebral palsy through both our booth activities and by talking to the public. I also got to explore different aspects of CP, including therapy sessions and support systems beyond just medical care. Most importantly, I gained a deeper understanding of what life is really like for the kids and their families. On top of that, this project really helped me improve my own skills in communication, teamwork, and critical thinking.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

What I enjoyed the most was definitely interacting and getting closer with the kids as the weeks went by. I honestly felt honored when they started to recognize our faces and voices. Even though many of them had speech difficulties and couldn’t really say our names, over time, they got used to hearing the staff call us and seeing us regularly. They became more open to interact with us and had fewer tantrums compared to the first week. That really made me happy because it felt like we were truly part of their therapy and daily routine, even though we were only there for a month.

I’m also really thankful to the parents who were willing to share their journey and personal struggles with us. It’s not easy to open up to people you barely know, and I really respect and appreciate their honesty.

On top of that, this experience has helped me academically too. I got exposure to various diagnoses like cerebral palsy, global developmental delay (GDD), and autism. Even though I wouldn’t say I’m an expert, at least now I’m more familiar with these conditions, which I think will definitely help me later on in Year 4 postings like paediatrics and psychiatry.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

One of the main challenges was working at the awareness booth. I realized that not many people actually know about cerebral palsy or our NGO, so sometimes it was hard to explain things in simple, layman terms to capture their interest. There were also times when people just walked past without engaging, which could feel a bit discouraging. Another challenge was handling the kids during therapy because they can have unpredictable moods. But I learned to be more patient and flexible, and I gained a lot of respect for the physiotherapists and parents who do this every single day.

4. What has really worked?

I think what worked really well was the combination of direct interaction and hands-on experience. Being part of the therapy sessions, observing the physiotherapists, and talking to the parents gave me insights that I would never get from books alone. Hydrotherapy sessions also worked great—not only because they help the kids move more easily, but also because the kids genuinely enjoyed it. I also think our teamwork as a group was strong, which made the whole experience smoother and more meaningful.

5. What can be improved in this project?

If I could suggest an improvement, I think it would be nice to have more structured guidance on how to explain cerebral palsy to the public at the booth. Maybe preparing simple brochures or FAQs could help us engage people better. I also feel that having more time at the center would allow us to build even stronger bonds with the kids and their families. Still, overall, I think the project was very well organized and truly meaningful.

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Brindda Sundram A197012

25th - 29th August

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I feel the objectives I set for myself at the beginning of this elective posting were fulfilled. My main aim was to improve my time management by handling different tasks in different departments while following the temple’s strict schedule. I managed to do this by learning how to balance cooking, making garlands, decorating, and helping with documentation without neglecting my responsibilities.

Another important objective for me was to improve my communication skills. I wanted to learn how to interact politely and confidently with temple coordinators, volunteers, and visitors from different backgrounds. Through this posting, I had many chances to practice that, and I feel I became more comfortable when speaking to people and asking for guidance. These are skills that will help me a lot in my future career when working with patients and healthcare teams.

I also wanted to become more accountable, adaptable, and able to think critically. I achieved this by taking responsibility for my duties, adapting to new or unfamiliar tasks, and solving problems quickly whenever something unexpected happened. Overall, this experience has helped me to grow both personally and professionally, and I feel it has shaped me into becoming a more empathetic, responsible, and confident future doctor.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

The part I enjoyed the most was being actively involved in hands-on work such as making garlands and helping with temple decorations. It was very satisfying to see the temple beautifully decorated and to know that I played a part in making it happen. I also enjoyed the cooking sessions, especially when preparing biscuits, because it gave me a chance to learn new skills while also experiencing the joy of serving food to others.

More than the tasks themselves, what I liked most was the community spirit. Working with seniors and peers, learning from their experiences, and sharing laughter made the whole project so meaningful. I felt happy and motivated being surrounded by such a positive environment. These moments gave me not just skills but also good memories that I will carry with me for a long time.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

For me, the most challenging part was managing time, especially during temple festivals when so many activities were happening at once. It was not easy to move from one task to another, such as helping in the kitchen, making garlands, and doing decorations, all in the same day. Sometimes the hours were long and I felt physically tired.

However, these challenges taught me a lot. I learned how to cope by dividing tasks with friends, asking seniors for guidance, and taking short breaks to recharge myself. Even though it was difficult at times, it made me more patient, organised, and able to handle pressure better. I now see these challenges as lessons that helped me grow stronger.

4. What has really worked?

I think the thing that worked best throughout this journey was teamwork. Everyone contributed their efforts, and because of that, the activities went smoothly. The seniors guided us with patience, and my peers gave support whenever something felt difficult. This teamwork made every task feel lighter and more enjoyable.

Another thing that worked well was capturing our journey through photos and videos. By documenting what we did, I was able to reflect on my progress and also keep memories of the experiences I had. The combination of learning, practicing, and reflecting made this posting very successful for me.

5. What can be improved in this project?

One thing I think can be improved is the organisation of tasks. Sometimes I felt unsure about which activity to focus on, and this caused delays or confusion. If there was a clearer schedule or division of tasks from the start of each week, I think the project would run even more smoothly.

Overall, I truly enjoyed this project. It gave me so much knowledge, new skills, and valuable experiences that I can carry forward in both my personal life and future career. With a few improvements, I believe the project can become even better and more impactful for the next group of participants.

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Beige and Brown Vintage Photo Collage A4 Document

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Learning Through Teaching: A Week of Growth and Service

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Learning Through Teaching: A Week of Growth and Service

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Nurul Husna binti Shaharuddin A195852 (25th August - 29th August 2025)

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, the project's goals were successfully achieved. I have been exposed to a broad range of NGO activities over the last four weeks, from administrative duties like recording and calculating monetary donations to interacting directly with the community through welfare, health awareness, and education. I now have a comprehensive grasp of how various industries collaborate to help individuals in need thanks to these events. The project's goal of giving us practical experience in service, collaboration, and the social obligations demanded of aspiring medical professionals was successfully achieved.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

The time spent with the kids was the most enjoyable experience. We conducted health education classes in addition to teaching them the fundamentals of reading and literacy. I especially enjoyed giving demonstrations on how to properly brush their teeth and wash their hands. Many of the kids immediately engaged, repeated the movements, and even attempted to demonstrate them to their peers, demonstrating their high level of enthusiasm. Their eagerness to learn and adopt healthy habits that could improve their long-term health was incredibly endearing. As the session came to a finish, we gave the kids tiny gifts, which made them happy and added to the special occasion.

3. What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

Adjusting to the diverse roles needed for this project was the most difficult part. I occasionally had to concentrate on administrative tasks like filing and calculating donations, and other times I had to come up with innovative ways to involve kids of all skill levels. .It was difficult to find the right balance to keep everyone satisfied, but it was a worthwhile experience that taught patience, flexibility, and communication skills.

Another particular difficulty was keeping the kids during this week project interested because not all of them paid equal attention to the courses or health demonstrations. To get their attention, especially when I was educating them about cleanliness, I had to be imaginative and engaging. It was exhausting at times, but these difficulties taught us important lessons about patience, flexibility, and problem-solving.

4. What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

Throughout this voyage, a number of things went incredibly well. Students and HALUAN members collaborated and worked as a team to achieve assignments effectively in a supportive environment. The youngsters were kept interested and eager to participate by the interactive teaching approach, which used movements, demonstrations, and straightforward language.

The balance of exposure, including community work, welfare knowledge, administrative skills, and inspirational sharing (such as Prof. Mohtar's address), was equally crucial. Because of this diversity, the project was comprehensive and significant, fostering my professional and personal development.

5.What can be improved in this project?

Although there is always space for improvement, this project has been incredibly fulfilling. A more organised rotation system would be beneficial, providing students with more time and in-depth experience in all areas, including community health education, welfare case management, and administration. Regular student reflection meetings during the weeks may be another enhancement, allowing us to exchange ideas, problems, and lessons in real time.

Lastly, continuity is essential in my humble view. The children's fundamental education, handwashing, and toothbrushing techniques would all be reinforced and practiced through a follow-up program. Long-term sustainability of influence would increase the project's significance.

This four-week adventure has been a life lesson as much as a project. I began by learning about the inner workings of non-governmental organisations, then moved on to comprehend welfare systems, was motivated by tales of international humanitarian endeavours, and concluded with the most fulfilling experience of all: influencing the lives of young people via care and education.

For this opportunity, I sincerely thank HALUAN, my coworkers, and the community. This experience has made me realise why I chose medicine: to serve people with integrity, compassion, and responsibility, not only to cure illnesses.

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Muhammad Firdaus Bin Muhamad Nahar, A191971, 29/8/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

The three objectives I've set to achieve for myself during this elective posting were gaining experience doing volunteer works, gaining knowledge in managing and interacting with senior citizens, and nurturing volunteering values in myself.

Personally, I believe that I was able to fulfill these objectives. I had my very first experience doing volunteer work at Rumah Seri Kenangan Cheras, gained exposure in effective communication with the elderly, and am now more motivated and inclined to do more volunteering works in the future.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

Definitely the people involved, I had the most amazing time with the residents there, the friendly staffs, and of course my two friends, Adam and Hayati. The residents especially, managed to score a place in my heart. They always had their quirks and stories to tell, it made every single day of my elective posting there super fun. Special shoutout to the staffs as well, whom welcomed the three of us with open arms, and treated us with so much kindness, we almost felt like we've known them for a very long time.

3. What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

I think one of the main challenges is communication. The residents especially, as some of them had difficulty hearing, difficulty in speech, language barrier, and there was even one aunty who's using sign language. However, I can say that everything went pretty well and I quickly learned that effective communication not only requires verbal cues, instead I need to utilize visual actions, body movement, proper tone, intonation and others in order to facilitate my communication with the residents.

4. What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

I believe that we managed to do most of our planned activities, and dare I say, very well. We did basic health monitoring, helped out Miss Kobayashi with her daily activities, helped out at the dining hall, cleaned the surau, and joined in the programmes and events held by the centre itself. I strongly believe that we managed to achieve this thanks to the great teamwork between the three of us, and due to the great cooperation given by the staffs and residents there.

5. What can be improved in this project?

We could've done a better and more detailed planning beforehand regarding activities that we wanted to do there. When we first arrived, we actually didn't have a clear plan on what we were going to do throughout this elective. Hence, the first few days we were there, there were not much thing we had done as we were still unsure what we should and could do thoughout this elective. All in all, I would still call this elective posting project a success, but I think a better activity planning would make it far better than it already was.

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Lessons in Patience and Compassion: My Journey at Rumah Seri Kenangan Cheras 

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Lessons in Patience and Compassion: My Journey at Rumah Seri Kenangan Cheras 

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Nurhayati Binti Basri

A193988

29 August 2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe our objectives of the project were fulfilled. We do assist in basic caregiving tasks, such as meal distribution and mobility support under supervision. Next, we also foster empathy and holistic care perspectives by understanding the psychological and social aspects of aging. Finally, we get to enhance our communication skills by interacting with elderly patients, understanding their concerns, and practicing active listening.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

What I enjoyed the most about the project was being able to actively engage with the residents during the activities and programmes. I felt happy seeing their smiles and knowing that even small interactions, like conversations or sharing laughter, could brighten their day. It was genuine happiness to create those meaningful connections.

3. What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

The challenging part of this project was communicating with some residents who had speech difficulties or language barriers. At times, it was hard to fully understand what they wanted to express and share. However, this taught me the importance of patience, non verbal communication, and listening beyond just words. I also found that some of the residents were communicating using sign language, which I think I need to learn in the future for my own good.

4. What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

I think what worked really well was our teamwork and collaboration in carrying out activities with the residents. We managed to divide tasks effectively, support each other and ensure that the programme ran smoothly. The residents also responded positively to our presence which shows that our approach in engaging with them was effective.

5. What can be improved in this project?

We can improve our communication skills with the supervisor or higher-up as we receive feedback from our supervisor. In the feedback, he highlighted that we have very good communication skills with the residents and staff in charge but lack communication with him in terms of discussion of activities. From here, I need to improve my communication skills not only with the supervisor but also the person in charge. Another area of improvement could be to plan more structured activities that cater to different levels of ability among the residents so that everyone feels included and engaged.

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Black And Beige Elegant Photo Collage Instagram Story_20250905_173640_0000

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A Month of Mentorship, A Lifetime of Memories at Salvation Army Boys Home

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A Month of Mentorship, A Lifetime of Memories at Salvation Army Boys Home

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ADRIAN SELVAN A/L ANTHONI S.SELVAN (A195616)

(25/8/25-29/8/25)

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe the primary objective of promoting the holistic development and wellbeing of underprivileged and at-risk boys at the home was fulfilled. Throughout the project, I observed positive changes in their confidence, discipline, and ability to interact with peers more meaningfully. These developments reflected the effectiveness of the activities and support provided.

Next, the objective of creating a safe and nurturing environment was also successfully achieved through structured daily routines. Activities such as personal hygiene lessons, time management practices, and cooperative group games not only taught them essential life skills but also encouraged positive behaviour and strengthened peer bonding. These routines provided the boys with stability and a sense of belonging.

In addition, I worked towards empowering the boys through weekly motivational talks, mentorship check-ins, and values-based storytelling sessions. By using relatable figures such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, I was able to capture their interest while imparting important values like perseverance, humility, and hard work. This approach made the lessons more engaging and impactful, helping the boys internalize positive role models and life principles.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

Haaaaaaaah! A few drops of tears fall as I pen these words down. I am not exaggerating when I say that almost everything felt perfect throughout the past month—from the very first day to the final second I spent at the Salvation Army Boys Home. Still, a few moments stand out to me the most.

Firstly, I truly enjoyed the daily travels to and from the Boys Home, even though it took almost an hour each way. That journey became a special time for me—I got to listen to my favourite songs, vibe along, release stress, and simply enjoy the drive. Since I personally love driving and listening to music at the same time, it made every trip meaningful and refreshing.

Secondly, the time I spent with the boys each day will always remain close to my heart. From the very beginning, we built a genuine connection. Every talk I gave seemed to capture their attention and, to my surprise, they were eager and willing to take in the lessons. Playing football, basketball, and sepak takraw with them was also one of my best experiences, especially since I don’t often get to play these games during my semester breaks. Each game, each conversation, and each shared moment allowed me to understand them better and also helped me to guide them in a way that resonated with their own way of thinking.

Last but not least, the daily devotion time was another highlight for me. Worshipping God together, playing games, and listening to spiritual sharing sessions with the boys was such a blessing. I was honoured to be given the golden opportunity to lead a devotion one day. Knowing that they are still in their teenage years, I made sure my sharing was relatable, practical, and beneficial for their future as they step out into the wider world. To keep it engaging, I even incorporated games and interactive methods so the boys could learn through both fun and reflection.

3. What have you found challenging about this project? (any part of the project you found hard to do)

Personally, I feel everything went smoothly and well overall. However, if I think back carefully, there were a few moments that I found slightly challenging. When my supervisor first listed the talks I had to deliver, I felt there were quite a number of them, and all of them were serious topics that were very important for teenagers. This required me to carefully plan which talk to give each week and prepare my slides in a way that was simple and easy for the boys to understand.

Another challenge I faced was adjusting the content according to the different age groups. The boys were from primary, lower secondary, and upper secondary, which meant I had to separate and adapt my materials for them. Initially, I was stressed about how I would manage my time and divide the talks effectively. Thankfully, their tuition schedule on alternate days gave me the opportunity to organize my sessions more smoothly, and I was able to spend time with the boys who were free on those days.

The distance to the boys’ home was also something I initially struggled with. During my first visit, I felt it was quite far, and when I shared this with my course mates, they told me I might have chosen the wrong place for my elective posting. At first, the long journey did feel like a burden, but over time, it became one of my favourite parts of the whole experience. What started off as a challenge eventually turned into a meaningful and enjoyable routine that I will always remember.

Lastly, I was surprised when my supervisor asked me to lead the boys in devotion. Before arriving, I had only been told about their tuition, playtime, bath, and study time, so this came as something new to me. I gladly joined their evening devotions from the beginning, but three days later, my supervisor told me that she wanted me to lead the session for the next three Wednesdays. At first, I was reluctant and unsure, but eventually I saw it as a wonderful opportunity to share the goodness of God through my own life and be a living testimony for the boys. In the end, what felt like a challenge turned into a truly rewarding blessing.

4. What has really worked? (any part in the project that you thought worked well)

To answer this, I honestly feel I don’t even have to think much—thank God, everything worked well and went smoothly. My main goal was to build a close relationship with the boys, as they all came from different backgrounds and broken families. I wanted them to feel free to open up and share anything with me, even though I was only going to be with them for a month. To my surprise, many of them became close with me within just a few days, while about three boys took about a week to feel comfortable. By the final week, I can proudly say that they had become a part of me, and I had become a part of them.

Another aspect that really worked was my talks with the boys. I was able to share everything I had prepared, and I could clearly see that they learned a lot—not just knowledge for now, but lessons that will benefit them in the future. What made it work even better was the way I conducted the sessions. I didn’t just talk; I made them interactive through games, Q&A, and videos. I encouraged the boys to ask as many questions as they wanted, and thankfully I managed to answer them all. This open and engaging approach brought me even closer to them, as they saw me discussing sensitive and “taboo” topics honestly and without judgment. In return, they felt comfortable sharing personal matters with me, which deepened their trust and strengthened our bond.

5. What can be improved in this project?

Honestly, I felt that everything in this project was good and well-organized. However, one interesting point came from the boys themselves. A few of them actually told me that I should ask my university if I could extend my elective posting period. Hearing that really touched me because it showed how much they wanted me to continue spending time with them.

From that insight, I feel perhaps the university could consider giving students the flexibility to extend their elective postings if they wish. For example, while some students who do their postings overseas may prefer to complete them earlier, others like me, who engage in volunteering, sometimes get very attached and would appreciate the chance to stay longer. This way, we would not feel like we are leaving things unfinished, but instead have more time to spend together and end the posting with a proper sense of closure. I feel that is the only improvement I would suggest.

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Intan Nasuha binti Md Noh

A195644

25-29th August 2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe my objectives were fulfilled. Firstly, I managed to observe and understand how play supports children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. Through activities like drawing, coloring, singing, and even simple physical games, I saw how play helps them to express themselves, interact with others, and develop problem-solving skills.

Secondly, I was able to explore non-medical forms of care and communication. By sitting with the children, listening to their stories, and encouraging them, I realized how much comfort and trust can be built just through attention and positive interaction.

Lastly, this project gave me the chance to reflect on my own growth. I learned that spending time in early childhood settings has helped me build more empathy, patience, and understanding, the qualities that will definitely help me in my future medical practice, especially when dealing with young patients and their families.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

I truly enjoyed being with the children every day. Their energy, laughter, and curiosity made me look forward to coming to school. I liked how they would call me to sit with them, read together, or share stories about their home. I also enjoyed joining their fun activities, whether it was coloring, singing, or playing movement games like frog jumps and kangaroo runs. These moments reminded me of the innocence and joy of childhood, and it felt rewarding to be part of their learning journey.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

The most challenging part was handling so many children at one time. They were full of energy and often very hyperactive, which sometimes made it hard to keep their attention during lessons. It also required a lot of patience to manage small conflicts or to guide those who were less focused. However, I slowly learned to adapt by following the teachers’ strategies and staying calm in those situations.

4. What has really worked?

What worked well was the way I engaged with the children. By giving them encouragement, joining in their activities, and showing interest in their work, I was able to build a closer bond with them. They responded positively and became more willing to listen and follow instructions. I realized that the more I interacted with them, the more they trusted me and felt comfortable around me.

5. What can be improved in this project?

One thing I think I can improve is being more active in communicating with the teachers, especially Teacher Hazimah and Teacher Umi Jun. I was a little shy at first, and this made me miss some opportunities to ask questions or learn more from their teaching methods. In the future, I would like to step out of my comfort zone and interact more with the teachers so that I can gain deeper insights into classroom management and teaching strategies.

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An Exciting and Unforgettable Journey at Wishesland

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An Exciting and Unforgettable Journey at Wishesland

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Chriselda Dorence Ak Terence, A194710, 30/8/25

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, the objectives of the project were successfully fulfilled.

Throughout this posting, my friends and I took the initiative to do some research on cerebral palsy (CP). Along the way, we also discovered that in Malaysia, CP is the second most common childhood disability after Down Syndrome. This broadened our understanding of its significance in the local healthcare setting.

Besides that,we actively participated in most of the programmes offered at Wishesland, such as physiotherapy and hydrotherapy sessions. From this, I learned the importance and reasoning behind each position and movement during physiotherapy, as well as the benefits of hydrotherapy in promoting relaxation and mobility. These experiences gave me a more hands-on perspective of how therapy supports children with CP.

Other than that, being stationed at the community booth was also part of our volunteering programme. Through this, we were able to engage with the community by introducing Wishesland and the programmes they offer. We also encouraged community members to play a role in supporting the NGO’s vision. In addition, we shared our own volunteering experiences, which helped raise awareness of the importance of supporting children with CP.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

The part I enjoyed most about this project was the fun and meaningful time I spent with the children. Most of them were within the newborn to preschool age range, and it was truly enjoyable to entertain them during physiotherapy sessions. Although many of them cried during therapy, my friends and I tried our best to distract them by playing songs they liked, which helped to calm them down. I will definitely miss them, as most of them were very cute and endearing. Some of them were almost the same age as us, and although they could not reply verbally, they clearly understood what we were trying to say. These moments made the experience very special and memorable.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

One of the most challenging parts of this project for me was approaching the community while being at the booth. As an introvert, this was my first time volunteering in such a role, and I initially found it difficult to personally engage with strangers. However, I pushed myself to overcome this fear and, to my surprise, it turned out to be manageable. This experience has motivated me to join more volunteering activities like this in the future so I can continue to improve my communication and confidence.

4. What has really worked?

What really worked during this project was the teamwork and collaboration between the volunteers, staff, and families. We supported each other in managing the children during therapy sessions, which made the activities run more smoothly. The structured programmes offered by Wishesland, such as physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and play activities, also proved to be very effective in engaging the children. I feel that the consistent involvement of both volunteers and parents helped make the interventions more meaningful and impactful.

5. What can be improved in this project?

One area that could be improved is the outreach to the wider community. While Wishesland is already doing great work, I feel that more awareness campaigns, workshops, or collaborations with schools and universities could help more people learn about cerebral palsy and the support available. In addition, having more structured volunteer orientation sessions at the beginning would be helpful, especially for first-time volunteers like me, as it would allow us to better understand our roles and expectations.

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“Compassion in Action: My Elective Journey with the OKU Community at Rumah Amal Kulim”

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“Compassion in Action: My Elective Journey with the OKU Community at Rumah Amal Kulim”

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Name: Nivnassree a/p Karmeham

Matric No: A195386

Date: 31/7/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, absolutely. My objective was to gain real-world experience in caring for individuals with special needs, to better understand their physical, emotional, and developmental challenges, and to contribute meaningfully to their daily lives. Throughout the four weeks, I was exposed to various aspects of care — from arts and crafts, education, physiotherapy, to daycare — and I felt that my presence made a positive impact, no matter how small. This experience has enriched my journey as a future doctor, especially in developing patience, empathy, and communication skills.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?

What I enjoyed the most was forming real connections with the children — learning their personalities, understanding their needs, and watching them light up with even the simplest gestures. The final week at the daycare was particularly heartwarming, even though it was also bittersweet. Being able to care for the younger children, help feed them, and engage in daily routines gave me a deeper appreciation for the patience and dedication required by their caregivers. The mini farewell the teachers organized for me made me feel truly appreciated and part of their community — a moment I will never forget.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

Feeding the younger children was surprisingly challenging — some of them refused to eat, especially if it wasn’t food they liked. Junk food seemed to excite them more, which made it difficult to ensure they got proper nutrition. Convincing them to eat and being consistent without forcing them was tough. Another challenge was during the dental program held by Hospital Kulim. Educating both the children and parents about dental hygiene was not easy — some refused to listen or participate. However, with patience, and support from the teachers and parents, we managed to pull through.

4. What has really worked?

Teamwork and consistency made everything smoother. The collaboration between staff, volunteers, and parents during the dental program was especially effective. The fun approach — such as colouring competitions and interactive brushing demos — helped engage the kids better. Also, taking time to build trust with the children in the daycare helped a lot in managing their routines and behavior. The structured daily schedule and the teachers’ constant guidance were key factors in making the experience run well.

5. What can be improved in this project?

One area for improvement could be the nutritional education — perhaps implementing a fun and interactive food pyramid or healthy-eating-themed games could help encourage the children to eat more balanced meals. Additionally, more structured debriefing or sharing sessions among volunteers could help us reflect and learn from each other’s experiences in real-time. It would also be beneficial to have some basic orientation or training at the start for volunteers unfamiliar with working with OKU children.

Final Reflection:

This elective posting has been one of the most fulfilling and eye-opening experiences of my journey in medicine so far. I’ve learned that compassion, patience, and small acts of care make a huge difference — especially for those who are often overlooked in society. Saying goodbye was emotional, but I left with a sense of accomplishment and deep respect for everyone who dedicates their lives to caring for the special needs community. I’ll carry these memories — and the lessons they taught me — throughout my career.