1. Were the objectives fulfilled?

• To explore research on legal and forensic medicine via observation and demonstrations.
  • During our attachment in the Legal Medicine Department, we were demonstrated a few procedures that were used in research, such as automated tissue slice procedures that were used to micro-slice the tissue of the organs that were taken from the dead body. The tissue slices will be used to study and conduct research regarding the abnormalities that were seen in the tissue slices.
• To assist ongoing research led by the supervisor from the Legal Medicine Department in Shiga University of Medical Sciences.
  • We were not assisting on research, but better than that, we were assisting our supervisors and other lecturers almost every day on autopsies. We succeeded in assisting in 11 autopsy cases of various complexity. We learned a lot of skills—more than we can imagine.
• To apply and enhance my research knowledge as a preparation before conducting research in special study module in Year 4 
  • Our research knowledge was enhanced as we were given mini-lectures by the lecturers and students of the Legal Medicine Department regarding their studies related to forensics. We were able to gain ideas on research topics and questions based on the lectures that were given by them.
• To enhance relationship and cultural differences between medical students in UKM and Shiga University of Medical Sciences 
  • I am very grateful that we were able to make friends with Japanese students, and they even exposed us to their various beautiful cultures, such as tea ceremonies that were prepared by our own friends, wearing kimonos that were brought by our own lecturer, and various Japanese foods that were fed to us to ensure we enjoyed every single thing Japan can offer.
• To promote linkages between UKM medical students and Shiga University of Medical Sciences lecturers. 
  • UKM and SUMS are known to be sister universities and have formed a very good relationship. Apart from us conducting elective postings in SUMS, SUMS was also sending their students to UKM to enjoy being a part of medical students in Malaysia, hence forming a stronger relationship between UKM and SUMS. This is a very good output that was gained through this programme.

• Being in Japan, I likely had the opportunity to immerse myself in a different culture. Exploring Japanese traditions, cuisine, and lifestyle could have been a fascinating and enjoyable experience.
• Working in a forensic department allowed me to gain hands-on experience in my field of interest. The opportunity to witness real forensic procedures, investigations, and research would have been both educational and exciting.
• Engaging in actual forensic work would have allowed me to develop practical skills that I may not have had the chance to acquire in a classroom setting. This hands-on experience could have been immensely satisfying.

• 1st objective: To explore research on legal and forensic medicine via observation and demonstrations — during our stay in Shiga we have been involved in the autopsies done almost everyday by each of our forensics doctors. Not only have we been observing the autopsies, we also had the opportunity to help assist in the autopsies itself. Our doctors have guided us on every step of the procedure, starting from analysing the police reports, to completing the autopsy procedure by doing urine tests, gram stains and completing the histopathology studies. 
• 2nd objective: To assist ongoing research lead by our supervisor (Professor Masahito Hitosugi, M.D., Ph.D.) from Legal Medicine Department in Shiga University of Medical Sciences — from the three weeks in Shiga University, we have been given forensics related lectures from our doctors and Japanese friends. One of the lectures that were given by Dr Nakamura was regarding the System of Determining Causes of Death in Japan. In this lecture, she explained how forensics was performed in Japan and including statistics and important points relating to this field. Afterwards, we were give a task by Dr Hitosugi which was to give a presentation regarding the System of Determining Causes of Death in Malaysia. In order for us to do so, we had to some research first regarding this topics since we haven't undergone our Forensics posting yet in HUKM. By referring to Malaysia's Ministry of Health (MOH), Malaysian's statistics, Google Scholar and much more, we were able to create a good presentation about this topic. When presenting in front pf our doctors and friends, we were all able to discuss the differences and similarities of the systems between Malaysia and Japan.
• 3rd objective: To strengthen and apply research methods as preparation for a special study module involving research that will be conducted during my fourth year of medical school — I think this objective was fulfilled during our daily mini lectures conducted on weekdays. Most of the lectures that was given by our fellow Japanese friends on the second week were presentations on their research topic under Dr Histosugi's guidance. We learnt how and why they chose that certain research topic, went through the contents of their paper, understood the methods, results, and discussion of the topic. A lot of them also included animations of the research methods and results for us to have a better understanding. For example our friend, Ayumu, her research topic was the conjoint of engineering and medicine fields, that was to study relation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) effects on broken ribs. This is because she had previously taken an engineering course, however decide to pursue medicine halfway. She had used a powered software that showed the mechanics of CPR performed on a few broken ribs, and this one of her research methods. Thanks to this, I have widened my knowledge on choosing research topics, a vast choice of methods can be used, and how the discussion can be made.
• 4th objective: To understand cultural differences between Malaysia and Japan by observing both healthcare workers and citizens in Japan — this objective was fulfilled not only by spending my time in the Forensics department in SUMS, but also by observing Japan culture outside of the university. From what I gathered in the department and SUMS as a whole, I realised that the system and the work ethics in Japan was respectable. Their planning, punctuality, paying attention to details, documentation and so many more. The list just goes on and on. As for their everyday culture, I admired how respectful they were to one another. Not to mention their publics services was just incredible. Their convenient stores, was just, really, really, convenient. They had ATMs, a coffee machine, a photocopy machine, clothes, stationary, and of course food and beverages. Also Japan's public transport system is famous to be superior and I can one-hundred percent agree on that note.
• 5th objective: To gain new knowledge that can be implemented in future practice — a lot of knowledge on various areas was mastered during our stay there. Let it be in forensics, studying, or even basic mannerism.

• First, I basically enjoyed the whole living experience in Japan itself. I loved the food, the weather (despite it being summer season and it was scorching hot), the clean streets, the absence of traffic jams, the skies (Japan skies are on a whole other level, I must say), the short buildings in rural areas, the cute square shaped cars, and so much more. I just loved how the public services served the citizens there. Everything was so convenient.
• Secondly, is the hospitality that Japanese people give to us. From most of the experience that I had, is that Japanese people are really kind and respectful of each other. For me, it was quite the culture shock after receiving such kind treatment from their people. They welcomed us with warmth and open arms and made sure our experience in Japan was something we would never forget.
• Moreover, I was super grateful that we happened to choose Forensics as our Elective Posting subject. I never knew that we would get this much exposure into the department, not only by autopsies, but also diving into the Pathology department as well. They taught us one by one, and translating everything for us so we would grasp the full understanding of the certain activity. After explaining, they would let us try the procedures on our own and gave us encouragement along the way. With this much exposure, I must say, I am quite excited to enter my Forensics posting in 4th year at HUKM.

• What was the most challenging probably was the language barrier among us and the Japanese people. Since most of them was not fluent in Japanese, it was a bit hard to explain a certain situation or procedure done. Sometimes, when we asked questions while performing the autopsy, it was hard to use Google Translate as our hands were covered in blood, so there were a lot of times where the questions were left unanswered. However, when the situation allowed us to use external devices, such as translating applications, the message was easy to get through. However, outside SUMS, there were lots of times where some Japanese people refused to use Google Translate and our words were bouncing back and forth in the air with no answer given or received. 
• Finding directions to places was also one of the challenges we experienced as a group. However, Google maps is a highly reliable source in Japan as the train schedule and navigator was accurate. We got lost a few times, but we did end up finding our way back home in the end.

• The autopsy and learning experience, our relationship with everyone in the Forensics department and us adapting to the Japan culture really fit in like a puzzle piece. I wouldn't say it had a bumpy beginning, because everyone made everything felt smooth and easy from the start. So a huge thanks to everyone for that.

• I personally think nothing needs to be improved in this project, especially our experience working with SUMS. However, I realised that making a detailed itinerary of your trip is something to take note on.

1. Development of professional skills such as decision making, critical thinking, teamwork, and proactivity that are useful for clinical practice.
   • I had a lot of opportunities to practise these skills especially teamwork and proactivity. As I mentioned in previous weeks, volunteering your help is always a chance to learn. Being proactive also means that I ask and read up about the patient’s history before joining/observing an operation. Every time I have something that I am confused about, I read up about it for a better understanding. When assisting in surgeries, I also learnt that it is important to be a team-player because a surgery is not a one-man-show.
2. Self-enrichment by adapting to and being independent in new experiences and environment.
   • It was challenging to travel to a foreign country alone and without any prior experience of the local culture there. However, I was glad that I was able to adapt and actually ended up enjoying my whole one-month exchange in Hungary. I tried to ask about a certain culture or practice when I find it new, which quickly helped me to know more about the city and the people. Midway through the exchange, I found myself feeling like a local, knowing my way around the city and not afraid to approach strangers when I need help, all by myself! 
3. Enhance communications skills internationally.
   • In the exchange, there were 21 students coming from 14 countries. It was the best chance to enhance communication skills internationally. Since the first night I was there, I talked to everyone and tried to get to know them as much as possible. We learnt a lot regarding each other’s countries and shared a lot of memories together. We bonded a lot throughout the four-week exchange that it was actually hard to say goodbye.

• To gain more hands-on experience in clinical settings. 

• Exposure to Different Healthcare Systems

• To promote cultural sensitivity and develop interpersonal skills.

• To promote understanding and cooperation amongst medical students and all health professionals, through the facilitation of international student exchanges by IFMSA - Throughout the whole exchange I had lived in the student dorm for 4 weeks closely with the other exchange students from all across the world - namely Romania, Italy, Greece, Oman, Jordan, Lebanon, Kenya and Equador. Between us, we were in Poland for an exchange in different fields namely obstetric and gynaecology, nephrology, cardiology, general surgery and opthalmology. There were also who were there for a research exchange where they had been closely involved in the lab works of their desired topics. Upon the first meeting, we were breaking the ice and getting to know each other as well as the professions chosen by each of us. We were able to discuss the importance and significance of each health profession as a collaborative effort in an effective healthcare system. An understanding of each profession was also met when we would casually meet and discuss what we have done in the wards or the labs under close supervision from our supervising doctors. I was also able to commit to a professional attitude throughout when dealing with certain cultural differences and opinions I could not agree to in the situations of social and political circumstances.

• To experience the healthcare system in Poland with the possibility of different health management approaches in the aspects of technological advancements, culture and political influence - I was posted in the Nephrology department of the University Clinical Center of the Medical University of Warsaw. Here, I had been working closely with dedicated internal medicine doctors, nurses and hospital staffs who patiently guided me through the wards for the last 4 weeks of my exchange in Poland's pubic health care. I was very fortunate to have a one-to-one session on patient management, following the ward rounds and having them being translated to English and closely observe the in and outs of the health information management system used. I was able to identify some significant disparities in comparison to the Malaysian healthcare system especially those surrounding such economical, poltical and cultural influences. For example, the rate of kidney tranplantations done in Poland is as though such a common phenomenon. Everyday I would see another patient who just had a kidney transplant or a newly admitted patient in for the required laboratory and clinical clearance before qualifyng for the next available transplant. From an economical point of view, the public Polish healthcare system revolves around a mandatory health insurance policy where the funding of health care in Poland is delivered the National Health Fund (NFZ) - when compared to Malaysia which is funded by general taxation and public health care facilities are heavily subsidised by the government. In terms of technological advancements, personally there were no apparent difference with public hospitals in Malaysia specifically in larger cities like Kuala Lumpur. However, each doctor is provided their own desk and computers to manage their case notes and new admissions whereas in Malaysia - HUKM for instance, doctors and nurses share the same computers at the front counters of the wards. Overall, I am able to identify the difference in healthcare systems and practise in Poland and Malaysia.
• To participate in the international student exchange social activities carried out throughout the exchange and learn through culture appreciation amongst medical students from other countries - Throughout the exchange, there were volunteers from the hosting university who would take us out into the city and walked us through historic landmarks, introduce us to National foods as well as exchange different cultural understandings between the other exchange students. I had also attended the National Incomings Care and Excursions (NICE) Project - equivalent for the National Social Program in Poland. Through these activities, I was fortunate enough to learn as well as experience real life historic places of Poland, try authentic and traditional Polish food and share some of my upbringings as a Malaysian. Of course this was also applied to the other exchange students from different countries. We found ourselves in casual conversations exchanging the difference in culture of our respective nations, and also attending the local activities together as a group. International friends were made as well as social media has played a crucial role in ensuring we keep in contact. 
• Apply skills in managing out-campus learning in the aspects of making decision, interpersonal communication, time management and critical thinking - Apart from taking part in a student exchange and undergoing clinical clerkship in Poland, I was also learning to be independant and survival in a foreign country. To which, skills of decision making, interpersonal communication, time management and critical thinking had tied my whole EP journey together. Decision making is most important since I was living alone and cannot expect other people to make decisions for me. I was deciding what to eat, to spend on and my plans for the upcoming days. Interpersonal communication had its barriers as I was not fluent in the Polish language. Though, I took the initiative to learn basic communicative skills in Polish and where I was not able to apply them, I was able to convey my needs and concerns through body language and other means of communication. This was also important throughout the process of making friends with the other exchange students and crreating a bond with them throughout the exchange. Time management is also crucial especially in maintaining a professional atitude, especially when it comes to punctuality and productivity - such as when I had to commute everwhere via public transport and make use of the free time I had. 

• Gain hands-on experience and exposure to different aspects of healthcare in Nepal. 
  • We were able to watch so many surgeries up close and help nurses in the ED. We’ve also learned so many cases that are prevalent in Nepal. I’ve noticed how the healthcare system in Nepal is different from Malaysia. In Nepal, you are required to buy the equipment such as branula by yourself for the treatments to be initiated. Payments are to be made before the treatments are done. I’ve also noticed how many of the patients do not rely on insurance. This has caused them to refuse medical treatments as they couldn’t afford to pay. Fortunately, there are some kind of doctors who are willing to pay the treatment fee for their patient’s wellbeing. 
• Develop new clinical skills and broaden my perspective on Nepal’s healthcare system. 
  • I’ve practised so many procedures that aren’t usually allowed to be done by year 3 medical students in Malaysia. I’ve managed to assist nurses in giving medicines intravenously, performing ECGs every day on patients and inserting cannula. 
•  Learn about a new culture and way of life
  •  Staying in a family who grew up in Nepal can teach you so many different things about the way they’ve lived their life. We learned so many new things about Nepalese. They believe that Nepal is ruled by 5 elements in life which are the sky, earth, fire, air and water. They believe that their life should start and end with the 5 elements. We also learned that Nepalese love to walk. Apart from that, Nepalese have beautiful genes.

• Immersing in cultural diversity
  • We managed to be part of the Nepali lifestyle thanks to our host, Mr Dharma and his family. Right from having breakfast and brunch immediately after that to the Dal-Bhat served to us for dinner. Not only that, walking around in the streets of Nepal whilst having a lot to see was also a great experience! In some places, it is faster to get on foot than on the road due to the heavy traffic there.
• Explore healthcare system abroad
  • Being able to learn in a different setting has broadened my clinical judgment. I have observed and learned various Drs and nurses how to perform procedures, surgeries and even as simple as communication with the patient. I have also gained new information and have noted the difference between the healthcare system in Malaysia and in Nepal. For example, in Nepal, patients are required to buy equipment prior to receiving healthcare as compared to Malaysia where patients pay for the healthcare received upon discharge. This is due to the limited resources in the hospital and thus, every piece of equipment used for the patient (syringes, branula, even gloves!) have to be used sparingly.
• Fostering personal and professional well-being
  • Travelling all the way more than 2,000 miles away from my homeland meant that there would definitely be a lot of challenges, critical thinking and decision-making that would be required in the journey. This decision-making started even way before flying. For example, as simple as deciding when to go to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to claim our Certificate of Good Conduct required a decision to be made. Not only that, since part of our sightseeing also required transportation, due to the weather conditions, we still had to predict the weather beforehand (with the help of the weather forecast) to inform the driver beforehand. At the end of the day, no matter how big or how small of a challenge we go through, it will surely have a positive impact on our personal well-being

• Learn new clinical skills and techniques that may not be commonly used in my home country. During the attachment at the respiratory department, I learned how to take blood from the femoral artery which I had never seen before in my medical life. Doctors were super nice and patient when they guided me to do this hands-on. Besides the doctor, the patient also gave his full commitment to us.  In addition, the method they took the blood pressure of the patient was different by using a small special device that can pump the pressure cuff itself and record the readings every 30 minutes. Fortunately, my supervisor gave me a chance and assigned me to do this hands-on on the patient. 
• Joined all the ward rounds and clinics even the medical conferences to expand my medical knowledge. Although I didn’t have a chance to join the clinic session, I managed to attend all the ward rounds and medical conferences. All the rounds were knowledgeable and the title for the conferences was attractive, which was about DKA. I will apply all the knowledge I learned there to the rest of my medical life.  
• Experience the healthcare system in China. The system in China was an eye-opener. All the documents were digitized, and can access every information with one click of the mouse button and is very convenient and time-saving. In addition, all the doctors practice and build a good doctor-patient relationship. Last but not least, patients treated me as a doctor even though they knew that I was just a year 3 exchange medical student from overseas. 

• I like the working vibe in the hospital the most. Although every day is hectic and stressful, every medical staff in the ward will always bring a smile to their face. They are not selfish and will help each other when facing problems. 

• The most challenging in this project is during the application process and the language barrier. For the application process, there are a lot of documents needed to prepare and submit, but the most frustrating was getting rejected by the universities that I applied to. Luckily, Zhejiang University accepted my application and gave me a warm welcome. 
• Apart from that, another challenge in this project is the language barrier. In China, the main language they use is Chinese. Although I am Chinese and can understand well the language, but for medical abbreviation is really over my head. Every time I communicate with medical staff or even patients I must rely on Google Translate to continue the conversation. I am grateful they didn’t show impatient when communicating with me. 

• Understand the culture and healthcare system in China was working very well in this program. In addition, all the doctors guided me patiently and tried to explain things in a way I could understand easily was really appreciated too. 

• In my opinion, everything actually worked fine in this program. Maybe doctor can have a face-to-face session with the junior batch to give clearer instructions on how to apply this program to make the application process more smoothly 

• To observe and study common cases found in Mater Dei Hospital with regards to general surgery 

• To learn the disease management and procedures done through adequate exposure in visiting hospital 

• To identify differences between the healthcare system in Malta and Malaysia 

• Yes. 
• I have broadened my outlook on healthcare delivery systems in China. I observed the integration of traditional Chinese medicine, the structure of medical departments and the different approaches to mobile payment systems.
• I applied the theoretical knowledge that I gained and improved my clinical skills in obtaining focused history and performing physical examinations on patients. I participated in procedures like electrocardiogram, bronchoscopic procedures, and pleural fluid drainage which shows my practical application of medical knowledge.
• I acquired and expanded the knowledge that will benefit my personal development and patient-centered care. Exposure to various medical conditions, patient interactions, and cultural nuances have undoubtedly enriched my knowledge.
• I developed self-reliance and strong cross-cultural communication skills with patients. I immersed myself in a Mandarin-speaking environment, interactions with patients and teammates, and adaptability to cultural differences which contribute to my development of strong cross-cultural communication skills.
• I met and connected with medical students from different countries by exchanging personal experiences and ideas, as well as establishing a long-lasting friendship. In the cardiology department, I met Yuxin. In the respiratory department, I met Shi Chenyang, Jin Hanwei, Guo Chunyi, Mu Yali, and Wang Shuyang.
• I acknowledged my personal strengths and challenges that may be revealed in the execution of electives. I demonstrated a strong ability to adapt to new environments, cultures, and medical practices, which allowed me to fully immerse myself in a Mandarin-speaking environment, embrace different healthcare delivery systems, and face unfamiliar situations with ease. My cross-cultural communication skills stood out as I engaged with doctors, patients, and friends from various backgrounds. 
  
  

• Gained exposure to a diverse range of medical conditions and diseases commonly seen in Nepal

• Actively participate in patient care

• Gain insights into global health challenges, healthcare disparities, and resource limitations by working in a resource-constrained healthcare environment.

• To experience difference in healthcare system between Malaysia and Japan 

• To improve history taking and physical examination skills 

• To produce well competence medical student 

• By dedicating time and effort to plan weekend trips earlier, I could potentially save a lot on transportation. Utilizing app like Klook to purchase subway passes depending to specific regions would be able to provide unlimited train and bus rides which ensuring the convenience and cost-effectiveness.
• I would also like to read more on the biochemistry module in year 1 as most of the experiment involves in gene level, instead on revising on central nervous system as the anatomy of a mice is different than a human. 

• To increase the mobility and to widen the horizon of medical students worldwide

• To provide equal chances to medical students to participate in a professional exchange, regardless of subjective, geographical, political, financial, sexual, cultural or religious backgrounds

• To provide medical students with the possibility to experience healthcare in another culture with different health and education systems, and to learn how differences in culture and believes are of influence; 

• To create possibilities for medical students to learn about global health issues, primary health concerns and basic epidemiology of the host country, and how it differs from their home country; 

• To contribute to the education of future health professionals with a global vision and to contribute to medical students’ personal development, self-reliance, and openness in becoming future health professionals;

• Language barrier with the locals

• Coping with slight racial discrimination faced

• Most definitely. My first objective was to learn the foundation and basic concepts of medical research and I think I’ve achieved beyond that. Through the articles that were assigned to me, I was able to grasp the approach to conducting a research and writing up an article. 
• My next objective was expanding my knowledge and understanding in the field of neuroanatomy. I had the opportunity to observe so many experiments that were essential in contributing to the research findings. If it wasn’t for this project, I wouldn’t have known how important SBNO1 gene is and how it contributes to the pathogenesis of many neurological diseases. I also learned that it plays a protective role in neurons when it’s not mutated. 
• In terms of personal development, I achieved my goal in adapting well to an unfamiliar environment and demonstrate the capability to gain new knowledge even with a language barrier. It didn’t take me long to get along with the students and professors there. We used different means to communicate, from hand gestures to google translate. 
• Lastly, my critical thinking skills were definitely elevated throughout my 3 weeks there. Travelling to unfamiliar places and navigating various situations gave me a boost in obtaining strong critical thinking skills. Although I had everything planned from A to Z, unexpected circumstances are unavoidable. For instance, I had to cancel my plan on one of the days due to a typhoon. Thankfully, I was able to find places that I can visit without worrying about the extreme weather. That was one of the experiences where I put my critical thinking skill to good use and ensured that I made the most out of my three weeks there. Traveling allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and gain new perspectives, which in return enhanced my problem-solving skills and creativity.

• Personally, what I loved the most about this project was the sense of discipline and independence that I got to experience. The joy of being completely in charge of my own life was like nothing I’ve ever felt before. From this project, I learned how impactful my decisions can be. Everyday, we make decisions subconsciously. I believe no matter big or small, all decisions are capable of changing the trajectory of our lives. Hence, I’m eternally grateful for having the opportunity to embark on this journey that has enhanced my decision making skill. 
• I also enjoyed how my 3 weeks experience has changed how I view things. I used to hate trying new things and adapting to new environments but i have a new perspective now. I’m also no longer afraid to step out of my comfort zone because I believe only by doing so, I’ll be able to grow as an individual.
• I absolutely loved the fact that I was able to study and travel at the same time. I was not only gaining new knowledge, I was also seeing and experiencing new things. This was not an easy opportunity to come by, so I’m very grateful for the experience. This journey has definitely broaden my horizons and made a huge positive impact in my life.

• The hardest part of this project was definitely the preparation part. There were so many documents to prepare and so many forms to submit. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have second thoughts about moving forward with this project. However, I told myself repeatedly to push through and that it’ll all be worth it. I’m immensely proud of myself for not giving up because this project was life changing and definitely worth all the hard work.
• As I’ve mentioned prior, the articles that were assigned to me were so difficult to understand and I was stuck reading the same paragraph for days. I felt a little frustrated but I reminded myself that there’s always a first time for everything and first times are always hard. In addition, I had a sense of comfort knowing that the articles were meant for the PHD students, who were way more advanced than me. With continuous support and guidance from my superiors, I finally understood the context of the article better.

• I think my time management worked really well. I was getting things done efficiently and I felt incredibly productive everyday. For the very first time, I saw my potential and the things I’m capable of achieving and in return, I’ve become more motivated to reach for the stars.
• I also feel that my financial management was pretty good. I wrote down my expenses everyday for 3 weeks to keep track of my money usage. I also planned my budget carefully, putting aside money for meals, groceries, transportation, shopping and so on. I’m proud to say that I’ve become wiser in managing my finance. 
• I’m also proud of me and Adliana’s planning strategies. Our well planned itineraries made all our weekend trips possible, enabling us to have the best time of our lives.

• I should’ve planned my project way earlier, perhaps at the beginning of year 3. I had a bumpy start as I missed the deadline to submit the application forms for many universities. I was sending multiple emails, submitting multiple forms but unfortunately, I didn’t receive any good news. I was lucky enough to be accepted by Shiga University of Medical Science, and I owe it all to Professor Suzana for lending a helping hand. 
• Apart from that, I feel that everything else went pretty well, just some minor inconveniences here and there. For example, I could’ve signed up for Japanese classes prior to the project to help me communicate better with the Japanese people. I’m not saying that learning independently is impossible, but given the time frame, taking classes would’ve been the better and wiser option. 

1) To improve personal professional skills in the aspects of making decision, interpersonal communication, time management and critical thinking

2) To observe and learn about doctor-patient relationships and patient-centred approaches.

3) To gain a general understanding of the healthcare system in Taiwan.

4) To identify differences between healthcare system in Malaysia and Taiwan

• Accessibility and Coverage

• Gatekeeper System

• Health Information Systems

5) To build cross-cultural relationships and foster cultural appreciation.

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

• To deepen my understanding of the unique challenges that family medicine presents

• Gain hands-on experience, to develop primary skills and hone my skills to deliver patient-centred care, which involves considering not only the medical aspects of a patient's health but also their social, psychological, and cultural needs. 

• Gain a deeper grasp of the best ways to support patients’ overall health and wellbeing by using a variety of interventions,

• Exchanging insights and experiences with new friends

To explore the difference of healthcare systems in Malaysia and South Korea

To experience the culture and society of South Korea

To observe the common diseases and technology in South Korea