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Final Reflection Elective Posting with NCSM 💕

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Final Reflection Elective Posting with NCSM 💕

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Name : Azrina Ibrahim

Matric Number : A191741

Date published : 25th August 2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe the objectives of the project were successfully fulfilled. From Week 1 to Week 4, I managed to actively participate in different health screening events, learn how to communicate better with the community, and develop skills that are important for my medical career. I gained exposure to tasks such as BMI screening, hepatitis B and C testing, handling logistics, liaising with external parties, and even leading volunteers during a major health event. All of these experiences aligned with the objectives of learning teamwork, communication, professionalism, and understanding the real-life practice of community health.

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

The part that I enjoyed the most was meeting new people from various backgrounds. Each event gave me the chance to interact with the community and also with fellow volunteers. It was very fun and meaningful because these interactions are related to my future as a medical professional, I learned how to approach people, how to explain health issues in simple terms, and how to provide reassurance. I particularly enjoyed moments where I could share medical knowledge in a way that was useful to them, such as explaining about hepatitis or teaching women how to perform self-breast examinations. These small contributions made me feel that I was applying my medical degree in a practical and impactful way.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

The most challenging part for me was the registry work. I am not sure what it is formally called under NCSM standards, but it basically involved repetitive documentation tasks. It felt very dull and monotonous after a while, and it reminded me of a sedentary lifestyle, which I personally try to avoid. I prefer moving around, interacting with people, and staying active rather than sitting for long hours at a desk. It was definitely a test of patience, but it also reminded me that in medicine, there will always be administrative responsibilities that are just as important as the clinical tasks.

4. What has really worked?

One thing that worked very well throughout this posting was my ability to communicate and teach. For example, during the Etiqa Free Mammogram Screening event, I had the chance to explain to participants how to perform self-breast examinations. It was very therapeutic and rewarding to be able to empower others with knowledge that can help them take charge of their own health. I also found that I worked well in team settings, whether it was coordinating with friends, assisting experienced volunteers, or even unexpectedly leading groups of volunteers. Each of these moments showed me that good communication and teamwork can make the whole event run more smoothly.

5. What can be improved in this project?

I think I could be more prepared for future volunteer projects, especially in handling unexpected outcomes. For example, during the Etiqa event, I suddenly had to take the lead, which showed me that I need to strengthen my leadership and become more assertive. I also tend to be very conscious about my team members whether they are tired or overwhelmed which sometimes makes me hesitate. I know there is always room for improvement, and I want to continue building my confidence in myself.

I also hope to volunteer more with this organization because it gives me valuable exposure to new people and medical expertise. Overall, I’ve learned so much from this posting, and it has truly benefited my experience. I look forward to learning even more in the future.

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name: NUR FATHINAH BINTI ROSLEE @ ROSLI

matric no.: A196435

date: 25/08/25-30/08/25

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, the objectives of my project with MAKNA were fulfilled. My first objective was to support patient care, and throughout my four weeks of volunteering, I was able to provide emotional support to patients and survivors by listening to their stories, offering encouragement, and engaging in meaningful conversations to help improve their emotional well-being. My second objective was to enhance cancer awareness, which I achieved by participating in awareness campaigns and community events, such as seminars and sharing sessions, to help spread accurate and impactful information about cancer prevention and early detection. Lastly, my third objective was to strengthen volunteer skills and community engagement. Over these weeks, I’ve learned how to communicate better, show real empathy, and work well with others. I also feel like I’ve grown as a person, becoming more confident and aware of how I can make a small but meaningful difference.

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

What I enjoyed the most was seeing how much I grew from Week 1 to Week 4. At first, I was nervous about approaching patients and survivors, but over time, I became more confident and comfortable having meaningful conversations. I also enjoyed the potluck sharing session where everyone brought food based on the first letter of their name, it created such a warm and friendly atmosphere. Most of all, I learned to be a better listener and show genuine empathy during my interactions, which made this project truly meaningful and memorable.

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

The most challenging part was overcoming my initial nervousness when approaching patients and survivors. In the first week, I often worried about saying the wrong thing or not knowing how to start a conversation. It was also challenging to express empathy naturally without sounding forced. However, with each session, I became more confident and learned how to communicate in a way that felt genuine and supportive.

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

What really worked was how each week helped me grow a little more. In the beginning, I was nervous and unsure of how to approach patients and survivors, but with each session, I became more confident and natural in starting conversations. The potluck session made everything feel warmer and more comfortable, which helped me connect better with others. By the final week, I could see how much I had improved. Not just in communication, but also in listening with empathy and understanding their stories on a deeper level.

5. What can be improved in this project?

I think this project could be improved by including more small group conversations with patients and survivors. I found that I connect and engage more deeply in smaller settings, as I’m still a little shy about speaking up in bigger groups. Since most activities were held in larger group settings, having smaller group interactions would make the experience feel more personal and meaningful. It would also give volunteers like me the chance to build confidence and contribute more effectively.

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Week 4: Final week volunteering with NCSM 

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Week 4: Final week volunteering with NCSM 

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Name: Lashwinie a/p Ravindran
Matric Number: A195610
Date: 25/8/2025 - 29/8/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe the objectives of this project were successfully fulfilled. Throughout the week, my peers and I were able to meaningfully contribute to the administrative tasks at the NCSM headquarters, specifically in data entry for patients from various health screening programs. This was crucial in ensuring proper data collection and record keeping, which in turn supports future cancer screening initiatives and follow-up activities. Additionally, we were also given the opportunity to support the preparation phase of screening programs, which involved distributing flyers and packing goodies for participants. These tasks allowed us to directly contribute towards outreach and awareness efforts, which are equally important components of cancer prevention and early detection programs.

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

What I enjoyed most about this project was the opportunity to immerse myself in a professional working environment beyond the clinical setting. The experience of working at the NCSM headquarters gave me a valuable glimpse into the administrative and behind the scenes work that supports large scale health programs. I particularly appreciated the teamwork and collaboration with the dedicated staff members at NCSM. Their passion and commitment towards improving cancer awareness and providing support for patients were truly inspiring. Being part of that environment, even briefly, made me feel that I was contributing to a meaningful cause. Additionally, the relaxed atmosphere of office work was refreshing and offered a new perspective compared to the clinical exposure I usually experience as a medical student.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

One of the challenges I encountered during this project was adapting to the meticulous nature of data entry. Ensuring accuracy while transferring patient details from the screening programs into the database required close attention to detail and patience. Although it was not physically demanding, it was a task that demanded a lot of focus to avoid mistakes. Another challenge was stepping into a non-medical role, which was quite different from my usual training as a medical student. However, this challenge turned out to be a learning point, as it helped me understand the importance of every role, medical and non-medical, in ensuring the smooth functioning of an organization like NCSM.

4. What has really worked?

What worked really well during this project was the sense of teamwork and the clear guidance provided by the NCSM staff. We were given clear instructions and responsibilities, which made our tasks straightforward and manageable. The data entry process, though repetitive, worked smoothly as we divided the workload among ourselves, allowing us to complete it more efficiently. The outreach efforts, such as distributing flyers, also worked well in engaging with the public and spreading awareness about the screening programs. I believe these small yet impactful contributions added up to strengthen NCSM’s larger mission of cancer prevention and support.

5. What can be improved in this project?

While the experience was meaningful and enriching, one area that could be improved is the opportunity for volunteers to gain a deeper understanding of how the data we input is later analyzed and utilized in NCSM’s larger projects. Perhaps a short briefing or sharing session on how the information contributes to research, program development, or patient follow-up could provide volunteers with a stronger sense of purpose and impact in their work. Additionally, it would also be beneficial to have more structured interactions with the staff, where they could share their personal experiences working with cancer patients and organizing awareness programs. This would help volunteers, especially medical students like myself, to better connect our non-medical contributions to the broader mission of the organization.

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Loheswari a/p Krishnan

A195927

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I feel the objectives were truly fulfilled. Through this project, I saw firsthand how cancer awareness can be brought to different communities, especially those who may not have easy access to healthcare. Screenings, health talks, and simple education on self-examinations made a big difference.

On a personal level, my objective was to learn, contribute, and grow more confident in handling patients and screenings. I think I became more comfortable in doing registrations, screenings, and even in explaining procedures to participants.

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

The part I enjoyed most was meeting people from different backgrounds. Every event gave me the chance to talk to participants, guide them, and sometimes even learn a new word or two in Chinese just to make them comfortable. Seeing their smiles when I tried speaking in their language really made my day.

I also liked that I could try so many different roles from Hepatitis testing, Smokerlyser use, ushering, registration, data entry, to even packing kits and preparing event boxes. Each role gave me a new perspective. Honestly, I never realised how much behind-the-scenes work goes into making an event successful until I joined NCSM.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

For me, the biggest challenge was definitely the language barrier. I often struggled when elderly participants couldn’t understand me, and I felt bad that they might not fully get my instructions. But instead of giving up, I made the effort to learn a few simple Chinese phrases like “breathe” and “hold” and that small step made a big difference. It even created funny, lighthearted moments that made both me and the participants laugh.

Another challenge was stamina. Some days were very long and packed with activities. I was tired, but I kept reminding myself why I was there whcih was to serve, to learn, and to make even a small difference. That gave me the motivation to keep going.

4. What has really worked?

What worked best for me was teamwork and adaptability. No matter what task I was given such as ushering, screening, or labelling which I tried to do it wholeheartedly. I also realised that working with other volunteers made everything smoother and more enjoyable.

Another thing that worked well was building rapport with participants. Even if I couldn’t explain everything perfectly, being kind, patient, and approachable made them trust me more. I think that’s something I’ll carry forward as a future doctor.

5. What can be improved in this project?

From my experience, a few things could be improved:

- More language support for elderly participants (multilingual pamphlets or volunteers who can translate).

- Clearer briefings for volunteers before events so everyone knows their role confidently.

- More structured breaks for volunteers, because long hours can be draining.

But overall, the project was very well-planned, and I admire how much effort the NCSM staff put in to make each event a success. It was truly a honour for me to be able to experience the hard work of NCSM to the world of cancer patients. I am grateful for the people I have connected and worked hard together during the entire elective posting journey.

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Name:Sharifah Adriana Risya binti Syed Ezmed

Matric Number:A196242

Date:25/08/25-30/08/25

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

I believe I have successfully achieved the objectives of this project. First and foremost, I have strengthened my soft skills throughout my elective posting with MAKNA. I truly believe that these skills will serve as invaluable tools in shaping me to become not only a safe doctor but also an empathetic, compassionate, and caring doctor, as well as a better human being.

In addition to that, over the course of a month with MAKNA, I was actively involved in various activities aimed at raising cancer awareness, particularly among students. We contributed by sharing insights from the perspectives of patients, survivors, and caregivers. By the end of this project, I believe the students gained a deeper understanding of cancer, not only about the disease itself, but also the struggles, the progression, and the important do’s and don’ts surrounding it.

Lastly, I also gained valuable experience by listening to the journeys of cancer survivors. Through these sessions, I believe I was able, in some small way, to help ease their burden as they continue facing the challenges of fighting cancer.

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

The most valuable part of this project was gaining a different perspective on cancer. It has helped me to become more attentive, empathetic, and caring towards patients, which I believe will benefit me greatly when working in the wards in the future.

Usually, my learning has been focused on the disease itself, its clinical history and disease management. However, through this project, I was able to gain new insights beyond textbooks. This experience is something I truly value, as I believe these soft skills and a deeper understanding will guide me to become not only a competent doctor, but also a compassionate and caring one for my patients

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

As I have often mentioned in my previous weekly updates, my biggest concern was how to communicate effectively with the survivors, as I am not naturally a very talkative person. Fortunately, through this experience, I was able to learn, adapt, and gradually improve myself, becoming a better version of myself, especially in terms of communicating with others.

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

One aspect that really worked well in this project was the sharing sessions with cancer survivors and patients. These sessions created a meaningful impact, not only for the students who gained new perspectives, but also for the survivors who felt heard and supported. The interactive approach of raising awareness through real-life stories, rather than just theoretical knowledge, was very effective in engaging the audience and leaving a lasting impression.

5. What can be improved in this project?

In my opinion, these activities could be made even more impactful by engaging not only with students but also with the general public. While cancer is a widely known topic in society, I believe that the stories of patients and survivors, including their struggles and journeys, are not commonly shared with the public.

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Vintage Retro Paper Letters Instagram Post

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Your name, matric number, date

Name: Nur Atirah Binti Abas

Matric number: A195355

Date: 25/8/2025-29/8/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe the objectives of the elective posting were fulfilled. I was able to participate in various health-related programs, contribute to community screening activities, and gain valuable exposure to public health initiatives. Along the way, I also developed important soft skills such as communication, teamwork, decision-making, and time management.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?
What I enjoyed the most was the opportunity to interact directly with the community and be involved in meaningful health awareness programs. Each week gave me new experiences—whether it was explaining iFOBT to participants, managing crowd flow during long hours, or coordinating volunteers during a formal event. I liked being able to contribute actively while also learning from the staff and other volunteers.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?
One of the main challenges was handling situations where participants were reluctant to undergo screenings, such as iFOBT, as it required extra effort to explain and encourage them. Another challenge was the long working hours in some programs, which tested my stamina and focus. However, these challenges taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of clear communication.

4. What has really worked?
Teamwork and cooperation really worked throughout the project. Every event went smoothly because tasks were divided effectively, and everyone supported one another. The guidance provided by supervisors and staff also played a big role in ensuring the activities were well organized and successful.

5. What can be improved in this project?
One area for improvement would be to create more opportunities for direct interaction with cancer survivors. Listening to their stories and experiences would not only help us understand their journey better but also allow us to build empathy and develop more meaningful communication skills when engaging with patients. Another aspect that could be improved is having more structured briefing sessions before each event. A clear briefing would help volunteers feel more prepared, confident, and aware of their responsibilities, which in turn ensures smoother event execution. Lastly, rotating tasks among volunteers could also be beneficial, as it would give everyone a chance to explore different roles and gain a more well-rounded experience.

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1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe the objectives of this project were successfully achieved.

Throughout the week, I was able to contribute to data entry tasks at the NCSM headquarters, handling patient information collected from multiple screening booths. This step was crucial to ensure proper data collection and secure record-keeping.

In addition, I was given the opportunity to be directly involved in the screening booths, assisting with blood pressure checks, Smokerlyzer, FOBT, and hepatitis screening.

Through this project, I also gained insight into how cancer awareness is spread within the community and how these booths provide access to screening services, especially for individuals who may not have easy access otherwise.

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

The most enjoyable part of this program was meeting people from various backgrounds and having meaningful conversations with them. I enjoyed explaining the importance of the screening booths and engaging with the public.

I also appreciated the chance to experience a working environment beyond the usual clinical setting. Learning from the NCSM staff was especially valuable as they were very kind, supportive, and explained everything in detail about both the headquarters and the screening programs.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

The most challenging aspect was overcoming my nervousness in the first week. I was initially afraid of explaining things incorrectly.

The FOBT booth was particularly challenging when engaging with older patients, as it required extra patience and effort to ensure they understood and agreed to undergo the screening. However, this challenge became a valuable learning experience as it taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of clear communication.

4. What has really worked?

What worked best was the strong teamwork and guidance provided by the NCSM staff during each outreach program.

Tasks were divided fairly, and we supported one another without hesitation. The events were also well-organised, which allowed us to learn and gain exposure in different areas such as data entry and handling screening booths.

5. What can be improved in this project?

Several areas could be improved to further enhance the project:

More sharing sessions by cancer survivors could be included. This would help us better understand their journey and strengthen our communication skills.

Increasing the number of volunteers at events would be beneficial, as there were times when manpower was limited.

A short briefing the day before each event could also be helpful, allowing volunteers to prepare more effectively.

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1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

In my opinion, the objectives of this project were successfully fulfilled. I manage to understand the role of NGOs in delivering healthcare and support services to cancer patients. At NCSM, we provide early detection by performing screenings. At the clinic, there is a mammogram machine where NCSM provides free mammogram services, I believe. There is also a “Home for cancer kids” on the fourth floor of their building. It really touches me when there are actual things being done that can be seen to make a difference. I was also able to enhance interpersonal and communication skills by interacting with patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals throughout my time at NCSM. Insights on cancer prevention, early detection, and supportive care in a Malaysian context as well as developing teamwork and time management skills through collaborative volunteering activities were among other objectives that were achieved too!

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

I enjoyed meeting all the new and nice people throughout the course of this project. I feel like everyone I’ve met, from the older volunteers, to volunteers my age, to even the PICs and the staff at NCSM headquarters, everyone is just so positive and happy and - It reminds me of home 😣 Everytime I apply for a volunteering opportunity, part of me feels excited and wants to see them again. Their existence reminds me that there are more good people than bad in this world. Choosing to be kind does not cost anything but it could mean everything. It’s so amazing that there is so much good out there in this world. I want to be like them. Maybe EP was the friends and memories we made along the way.

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

Probably thinking if we were qualified enough to volunteer or being afraid of making mistakes while volunteering then getting blacklisted for future events

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

Good time management and being proactive in looking for volunteering opportunities! Looking forward to volunteering more in the future but with classes starting soon, I feel like we would be confined to weekends only. We’ll see!

5. What can be improved in this project?

Just to volunteer in general and not be confined to NCSM volunteering opportunities only. As their outreaches are on certain days, on days that do not have outreaches we could go to other organisations and volunteer maybe. All in all, 10/10 experience!

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Name: Nur Ain binti Tayib

Matrix num.: A195796

Date: 25/08/2025-30/08/2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

I would say that the objectives were successfully fulfilled. My main objective is to know more about cancer support organisations in Malaysia, which I have achieved by learning about MAKNA's efforts and offers to the cancer patients and their families. Throughout my volunteering with MAKNA, I have heard so many experiences and felt so many struggles of the cancer patients. Some of them have family support that they can rely on. But most of them are the provider for their family, and having cancer is a downfall in their life. Therefore, they are so grateful for knowing MAKNA, and this organisation has really helped them through the difficult times. MAKNA did not just focus on giving financial support to these patients, but also cared about their well-being and mental status. For me, as a medical student who is soon to be a medical practitioner, I believe that this kind of organisation is very beneficial for my future patients. Because instead of just treating the disease, I should see my patient as a whole person who has family to take care of and personal problems to add to their burdens. Therefore, suggesting an NGO like MAKNA to my patient would be a game-changer that hopefully will lessen their burdens.

Other objectives include widening my communication skills and strengthening my confidence. I believe that from day one, volunteering with MAKNA, I have trying to achieve these. In this last week I felt more confident to approach the cancer patients and other volunteers. I have been asking so many questions about their experiences and journey. Throughout the posting, I have also gave some ideas of the activities that we need to do during the sessions. Also, I did learned about AISEC association which is a youth organisation focusing to raise leadership skills and connections amongst students in Malaysia. I also made some friends from AISEC and students of Taylor's University.

My last objectives is to know more about common cancers in Malaysia. This is achieved by meeting cancer patient's and survivors who came from all around the country. Especially during survivors sharing in Rumah Perantaraan MAKNA Putrajaya, I have seen various type of cancer patients from far states who are receiving treatment in Institut Kanser Negara and Hospital Putrajaya. I listened to the journey of breast cancer patients and even sarcoma patients. What interest me the most is the male patient who had breast cancer. He was kind enough to showed his scar to us and shared how difficult his treatments journey has been as his case is quite rare. I felt so grateful to have this experience which has help me grow to become a better medical student.

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

What I liked the most is the fact that I can be involve in so many sharing session with cancer patients. This is because in the wards and lectures, we only learned about the cancer but never about the patient. Cancer is greatly affected by the mental strength of a person, that is what one of the cancer survivor told me. She said, her cancer was some kind of blessing in disguise for her because before she had the cancer she was suffering in an abusive relationship. She had eight childrens to take care of and she even suffered from mental issues back then. However cancer had turned her life 360 degree not in a bad way. She started seeking for treatments and outer support eversince. She also had been trying hard to ignore her abusive relationship and her husband did not care about her no more. It actually ease her mind and she said that cancer makes her ignore all other problems and force her to focus on getting healthy so that her children will not lose a mother. This story moved me deeply and I will remeber it as a sign for me to be grateful of what I have in my life right now. Other than that, I also ejoy the company of many good people throughout this EP. The volunteering committee from MAKNA is so welcoming and the nurses in halfway house treat us like family. After all, I felt like I have become a part of MAKNA family.

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

One of the challenging part is definitely during the first week of the EP. This is because for the first time we need to work together with MAKNA to find suitable programme for our volunteering. It was hard because MAKNA plan that month includes a travel to Kelantan which is too far for us to join. Since they cannot give us the living accomodation and transportation, we cannot join the programme which we really want to. However I and my friends successfully negotiate another activity with MAKNA in their halfway house to compensate for the empty schedule. We actually managed to fill in the schedule and it was an inspiring and meaningful session we made in the MAKNA halfway house.

It was also a challenge to start conversations with cancer patients at the beginning of the posting. This is because I was a shy person who cannot communicate really well. But after a few sessions, the words comes out naturally and I had asked so many questions and learned so many things form the patients and survivors. I personally feel like this posting has changed me to become a better confident person.

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

What has really worked is my connection with the patients and MAKNA. During the third week of the EP, I had a conversation with one of the caretaker who is the wife of the male breast cancer patient. She is so active in sharing her husband's cancer treatments journey in social medai as she also had a brother who died from cancer and she herself has some other medical conditions. I enjoyed talking to her and she shared her social media in case I want to know more. I and my friend also had a conversationwith one of the survivor who had 2 cancer simulatneously. She had been diagnosed with ovarian and cervical cancer which causes her to remove all her reproductive organs. She shared that she took 2 years just to recover and return to her life. Having a conversation with her is the best experience in the last week of my EP as this is so inspiring and motivational.

5. What can be improved in this project?

I believe the project can be improve if were given more time and some allowances for accomodation or transport. This is because MAKNA had their plan for the whole year and there are some good activities that we cannot join because they were held before the EP month and we are still binded to our study. The programs were mainly cancer fundraise and screening program. There was also a screening program which held in Kelantan in our second week of EP, however since the programme were held for 3 days and we do not have the transport, plus MAKNA could not provide the accommodation, thus we cannot join the program. It was an interesting one since the programme involved home visit, cancer screening by moving truck and many more. It was a loss for us but we still managed to fill the second week of our EP with another eventful activity in MAKNA halfway house. Based on this experience I believed if we planned ahead and had asked for some allowance we actually are able to join the activitie in Kelantan. I take this as a meaningful experience and would do better planning in the future programme.

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Week 4 with NCSM: From Nervous to Inspired

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Week 4 with NCSM: From Nervous to Inspired

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1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Over the past four weeks at the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), I feel that the objectives of the project were fully achieved. I gained practical experience in both administrative and hands-on tasks, from entering Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) results into the National Cancer Screening Registry to preparing iFOBT kits and managing stations during community events. I also learned about the Patient Access Programme (PAP) and the holistic services NCSM offers, including psychosocial support and wellness programs. This exposure allowed me to understand the full spectrum of patient care, beyond just clinical procedures.

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

What I enjoyed most was the hands-on involvement in the events. Being in charge of the Hepatitis B and C station during the events was challenging yet extremely rewarding. Interacting directly with participants, guiding them through procedures, and seeing the immediate impact of our work gave me a sense of purpose and satisfaction. I also appreciated preparing iFOBT kits and organizing instruments for other stations, which, although meticulous, allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the success of the events. The building tour further deepened my appreciation of how NCSM integrates screening, patient support, and community outreach.

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

I faced several challenges that tested both my patience and adaptability.Firstly, data entry was especially demanding due to the large volume of documents, and searching carefully for each participant’s information often felt tedious and mentally exhausting. Moreover,during events, I struggled with language barriers when communicating with participants especially elderly, which made guiding them through procedures more difficult and occasionally stressful. On top of that, finding opportunities to volunteer for additional events was challenging, as there was always high demand and limited spots, leaving me wanting more hands-on experience. Despite these difficulties, these moments became valuable lessons. They taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of clear communication, as well as how to stay composed and adaptable under pressure. I feel that facing these challenges has strengthened my confidence and ability to navigate real-world healthcare situations.

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

Several strategies worked well. For instance, using checklists, dividing tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and working collaboratively with colleagues ensured efficiency and accuracy. Practicing hands-on skills at events increased my confidence and competence. Support and guidance from senior staff helped me navigate challenges smoothly. Overall, preparation, teamwork, and structured organization proved essential to achieve the goal of health screening programmes.

5. What can be improved in this project?

From my experience during these 4 weeks , I feel certain aspects could be improved to reduce the challenges faced by volnteers.Firstly,structured mentorship or reflection sessions with senior staff would provide guidance, support, and the chance to discuss strategies for managing challenges, helping volunteers learn not just the tasks but also how to approach them thoughtfully.Opening more volunteer spots for each event would allow more hands-on experience for volunteers who are eager to participate, helping them build practical skills more quickly. Lastly,to address language barriers during events, there could be a teaching session where volunteers learn simple words or basic phrases in different languages, making it easier to communicate with participants and guide them confidently.

I am sincerely thankful to NCSM and all its staff for welcoming me so warmly and for their efforts in supporting the community. Seeing their dedication firsthand has been truly inspiring, and their guidance and encouragement have made this experience unforgettable. I genuinely hope I will have the chance to work with them again in the future and continue contributing to their meaningful mission.

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My Volunteer Journey with NCSM : The Finale

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My Volunteer Journey with NCSM : The Finale

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1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, I believe all of my objectives for this project were fulfilled. The main aim was to gain exposure to community health through volunteering, to develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and decision-making, and to understand the role of NGOs like NCSM in cancer awareness and screening. Throughout these weeks, I was able to actively participate in various health events, assist in screening procedures, and contribute to the smooth running of programs. More importantly, I learned how community engagement and preventive health efforts are carried out on the ground, which aligned very well with the objectives.

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

What I enjoyed the most was the hands-on experience. For example, being entrusted with responsibilities like blood labelling, assisting nurses during clinical breast examinations and Pap smears, data entry, Hep B and C screening and guiding patients during events. These roles gave me a sense of responsibility and allowed me to contribute directly. I also enjoyed interacting with patients, especially when I could reassure them and make them feel more comfortable during procedures. On top of that, working alongside the dedicated team at NCSM was very inspiring, they showed me how passion and teamwork can make a big difference in community health. This volunteering experience was not just to complete my elective posting, it gave me a new vision of my role in community.

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

One of the biggest challenges was dealing with unexpected situations during events. At Kota Damansara, for instance, miscommunication with organisers left us without a proper booth, forcing us to work in a hot tent under the scorching sun, and later face heavy rain that almost blew the tent away. Physically, it was very draining, and mentally, it required a lot of patience to stay calm and continue serving patients. Another challenge was the long hours of event which were very tiring. However this made me learn to endure and keep giving of good energy. I also learnt how to push through and manage stressful situations.

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

I think what worked best was the teamwork and adaptability. Despite setbacks like miscommunication, weather challenges, and heavy workloads, everyone stayed committed to the cause. We supported each other, divided responsibilities effectively, and focused on solutions rather than problems. Another aspect that worked well was patient communication. I saw how even small gestures, like a warm greeting or explaining procedures gently made patients more cooperative and comfortable. Creating safe environment for them was equally as important. This strengthened the overall success of the events.

5. What can be improved in this project?

I think one area that can be improved in volunteering at NCSM is the overall coordination and preparation before events. For example, clearer communication with organisers would prevent issues like the booth space problem we faced in Kota Damansara. It would also be helpful if volunteers received short briefings before each event, so that everyone feels more confident with their roles and patient flow runs smoothly. In addition, having better facilities such as fans, shaded areas, or rest spots during outdoor events would make it less physically draining, allowing us to give our best throughout the day. I also feel that rotating tasks among volunteers and giving us more chances to educate patients directly would make the experience more engaging and meaningful. Finally, having short feedback or reflection sessions after events could help both volunteers and NCSM improve and grow together. On my part, I can also improve by being more proactive and taking initiative to guide patients, anticipating tasks without waiting to be told, and building more confidence when communicating with patients. This way, I can contribute more effectively and support the team better in future events.

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1. Your name, matric number, date
Name: Aisshwarya
Matric Number: A194859
Date: 25 August 2025 - 29 August 2025

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?
Yes! If anything, I felt that my experience in these 4 weeks was so much more than what my initial objectives were. I had only planned to volunteer at the events to gain practical experience in conducting basic health screenings, increase public awareness about cancer prevention and early detection, develop communication, leadership and organisation skills, as well as understand the roles and operations of NGOs in Malaysia’s public health sector.

Along the way, however, I also gained a lot more than I expected. For example, I developed critical problem-solving skills, especially in managing last-minute changes during events. I also learned to work more effectively as part of a team, both by taking instructions and by leading others when I was put in charge. Another skill I picked up was time management, seen when balancing the office hours, event preparations, and personal time which taught me the importance of efficiency. I also gained confidence in engaging with people from different backgrounds, from VIP guests to the general public, which really strengthened my interpersonal skills. Most importantly, I learned how much effort and dedication goes into health advocacy and community outreach, which gave me a deeper appreciation of NGOs like NCSM and their role in bridging gaps in healthcare. On top of that, I made new friendships and professional connections that I truly value.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?
What I enjoyed the most was meeting new people. This project gave me an opportunity to interact and socialise more. I was able to meet people from many different age groups, some who were volunteers and some who came to do the screening at the events. Especially in med school, I feel that something I lacked was the time to go out and socialise, so I felt that this project really helped me to meet people organically and make conversation. It made me step out of my usual comfort zone, and I actually found joy in listening to people’s stories, sharing experiences, and feeling that sense of community.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?
One thing I found challenging was dealing with last-minute changes of events because I’m someone who appreciates structure, and adapting to changes can sometimes take time for me to process. However, because these changes were practically inevitable in these sorts of events, I gained a lot of exposure from it. Now, I feel that I’m much better at handling changes and adapting to them more quickly than I did before. It also taught me to stay calm under pressure and to think on my feet, which I think are really valuable skills to carry forward.

4. What has really worked?
Something I thought worked well was being able to help manage the ETIQA mammogram launch. I feel that it was really good exposure to event management, and I was able to gain first-hand experience on what worked and what didn’t, which will definitely be beneficial for me in the future when organising other events.

Another thing that worked really well was the teamwork and guidance we received from our supervisor and the staff at NCSM. Their trust in us to take on major responsibilities motivated me to push myself further. The structured tasks in the office, like data entry and preparation, also gave me a clearer picture of how much groundwork goes into these programs before the public even sees them. On top of that, the sense of responsibility we were given, like being lead volunteers, really worked in helping me grow, because it made me accountable for others and not just myself.

5. What can be improved in this project?
Improvement-wise, I think one thing that could be enhanced is the initial briefing process for new volunteers. While I eventually got used to the flow of things, it would have been even smoother if we had a more detailed orientation at the beginning, outlining not just our tasks but also potential challenges we might face during events. This way, we could be better mentally prepared for sudden changes or unexpected situations.

Overall though, the project was meaningful and impactful, and I’m grateful to have been a part of it.

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1. Name, Matric Number, Date
LEE AI SHUAN
A189698
25/8/25 – 29/8/25

2. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

Yes, the objectives were fulfilled. The program successfully reached out to residents in multiple PPR and PA communities, providing much-needed health screenings, follow-up care, and medical support directly at their homes. By deploying multidisciplinary teams consisting of doctors, medical students, and general volunteers, the initiative was able to identify chronic diseases, assess patients’ ongoing needs, and provide essential medical devices such as blood glucose machines, BP machines, wheelchairs, and hospital beds. This ensured that healthcare was more accessible to the B40 community and caregivers who often face significant barriers to care.

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

I enjoyed the opportunity to engage directly with the community in their own homes. Unlike clinic-based encounters, house visits gave me deeper insights into patients’ real living conditions, caregiving challenges, and the socioeconomic barriers that affect their health.

One highlight was observing the doctor’s management of a hypertensive urgency with seizures during a home visit. Witnessing emergency care being delivered in such a resource-limited environment was both eye-opening and educational, reinforcing the importance of quick clinical judgement and preparedness.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

The most challenging aspect was addressing the low health literacy among patients. Many residents lacked proper knowledge of how to manage chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, and some had defaulted follow-up due to limited care and resources. Explaining the importance of adherence, lifestyle modification, and follow-up visits required patience, empathy, and repeated reinforcement.

Another challenge was witnessing the caregiver burden in PPR and PA communities. Caregivers often struggled with limited financial and emotional support, yet their role is critical in sustaining long-term patient care. It was difficult to see how overlooked their struggles are within the healthcare system.

4. What has really worked?

The house-to-house approach worked very well, as it allowed us to reach patients who otherwise might not seek or have access to regular medical care. The team-based structure—with doctors, medical students, and volunteers—was effective, as each role complemented the other to provide comprehensive support. Providing medical devices directly to patients was particularly impactful, as it addressed both immediate and long-term needs.

5. What can be improved in this project?

Sustainability: While one-off visits are beneficial, follow-up mechanisms (e.g., regular check-ins, community health volunteers, or digital health reminders) could help maintain long-term disease control.

Caregiver support: Future programmes should integrate caregiver education and counselling, as caregiver well-being directly impacts patient outcomes.

Health education materials: Providing simple brochures or visual aids in different languages could improve health literacy and empower patients to better manage their conditions after visits.

Emergency readiness: Equipping teams with portable kits and clearer referral pathways would enhance the management of emergencies encountered during home visits.