Congratulations you are already in the Week 2 of EP journey!

Please write, upload pictures/videos (lots of them please!), and share your journey with your friends. Like & comment on others sharing too!

1.⁠ ⁠Your name, matric number, date

2.⁠ ⁠How is your progress?

3.⁠ ⁠Points to remember from week 2!

4.⁠ ⁠Your feelings & thoughts

5.⁠ ⁠ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

6.⁠ ⁠Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

7.⁠ ⁠Your plan for next week (Week 3)

1. Your name, matric number, date

• Shalyn Lee Xin Yi

• A188157

• 29/7 to 2/8

2. How is your progress?

This week, I was reassigned to assist in the 4-year-old class, which has been a valuable learning experience. Each morning, I guide the children from the main hall to their classroom, play with them, and encourage them to drink more water. Working alongside Shu Xuan and teacher Nitiya, I’ve gained valuable insights into interacting and communicating effectively with the kids. We engaged the children in various activities, such as playing in the sand, participating in a small assembly, and enjoying hopper toys. These activities aimed to nurture their creativity, discipline, and learning abilities. In the afternoons, I supervise lunchtime, occasionally feeding the children, while teacher Nitiya helps with their baths. I handle cleaning duties, including sweeping, washing bowls, wiping tables, and refilling water bottles. This week also saw the addition of a new child to our class, who initially struggled with insecurity and cried, wanting to leave. Despite his attempts to run away, we persisted in guiding him into the classroom. The other children were remarkably kind and inclusive, eventually helping him to feel comfortable and join in their play.

3. Points to remember from week 2!

Firstly, this week has reinforced the importance of implementing reward-based education over punitive methods. Secondly, I’ve found that bending down to a child's level when speaking to them fosters a more open and willing dialogue. Thirdly, encouraging responsibility by allowing them to perform simple tasks, like washing and wiping bowls or mopping the floor, helps build their sense of accountability. Fourthly, listening to their reasons during arguments or when they are upset is crucial for understanding their perspective. Lastly, involving them in cleaning up their messes not only teaches responsibility but also reinforces the idea that they are part of a team.  

4. Your feelings & thoughts

This week has been filled with heartwarming moments and valuable lessons. One of the most touching experiences was when a girl with speaking difficulties smiled and hugged me. Despite her slurred speech and tendency to shout when expressing herself, she is remarkably smart and understands the instructions given. Every morning, she asks me to help her tie her hair, and her constant smiles brighten my day. I was especially moved when she called me "Jie Jie," which means sister in Chinese, and it felt like a significant reward for my efforts when she began to say some words. Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by a few very mature kids who diligently followed instructions and completed their tasks, even if not perfectly. Their progress was truly encouraging. My attention was particularly drawn to Evan, a child who, due to his busy parents and lack of care at home, sometimes acts out to seek attention. I am grateful for the support from both the teachers and the other children, which has been invaluable in managing these challenges and creating a positive environment for everyone.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

Reflecting on this week, I’m reminded of the quote from The Little Prince: “All grown-ups were once children... but only a few of them remember it.” This insight will stay with me as I move forward, prompting me to remember and appreciate the childlike perspectives and needs of the kids I work with. From their struggles and triumphs to their small acts of kindness, I’ll strive to keep their experiences in mind, allowing empathy and understanding to guide my approach.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

Settling arguments and conflicts among the children has proven challenging. Every child acts for a reason, and it’s difficult to pinpoint who is at fault during a dispute, making it unfair to punish without understanding the full context. Initially, I found it hard to navigate these situations, but learning from the teachers has been enlightening. Now, my approach involves soothing their emotions first and checking if anyone is hurt. I then asked them to explain what happened and why they acted as they did. If a mistake is evident, I guide the child to apologize and encourage them to shake hands, fostering reconciliation and friendship.

Additionally, I’ve been concerned about a new boy who relies heavily on his family and struggles with self-sufficiency. He has difficulty eating on his own and is reluctant to follow instructions. I’ve been working hard to engage him and encourage other children to be positive role models. I hope that he will gradually learn and improve with time and support.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

For Week 3, my plan includes several key objectives aimed at fostering growth and adaptation among the children. First, I will focus on being a role model to encourage them to become more independent, responsible, and creative. By demonstrating these qualities in my interactions and tasks, I hope to inspire the children to emulate them in their behavior.

Additionally, I will work closely with the new boy to help him adjust to his new environment. This involves providing extra support and encouragement to make him feel more comfortable and integrated into the class.

I also plan to dedicate time to teaching the child with speaking difficulties more new words, which will aid in her communication and build her confidence.

Lastly, I will make it a point to celebrate the achievements and positive behaviors of the children, offering compliments and recognition to reinforce their efforts and progress. This will help boost their morale and motivate them to continue striving towards their goals.

Your name, matric number, date

• Shalyn Lee Xin Yi

• A188157

• 29/7 to 2/8

Aida Raihana Bt Che Rahim

A188171

5/8/2024 - 9/8/20024

2.⁠ ⁠How is your progress?

This week has been amazing so far. I have learned more about the students and built strong relationships with them. The first day of the second week, I  already gained valuable knowledge from my supervisor, who explained the specific challenges each student faces. To join a Program Pendidikan Khas Integrasi (PPKI) class in a government school, students must obtain an OKU card. I also learned that only clinical psychologists are responsible for diagnosing intellectual and learning disabilities as early as three months old. Initially, I was confused when I saw students with learning disabilities, as they act normal like the other students. I learned that these students have problems with academics, not basic skills. Each student has an OKU card with specific learning disabilities (SLD) listed. It was my first time seeing an OKU card, which was quite enlightening. My supervisor also informed me that Fudhail and Qalish, students with autism, have echolalia, meaning they tend to repeat sentences that are said to them.

On Wednesday, we had a stacking cup tournament that was held at the Masjid Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Hall. I was told to arrive at 7:30 am to assist Teacher Gan in supervising the students. Registration began at 8 am, with only four participants from each school allowed in the competition. The remaining seven students enjoyed themselves by playing other games like solving the Rubik's cube in five minutes and competing in Xbox games. I monitored these students, capturing pictures for memories. Before the games began, we stopped by the cafe for breakfast, where I assisted them at the counter. By noon, some parents started picking up their children, and the event concluded.

On Thursday, we had a cooking workshop, and we decided to make pancakes. I handed out the instructions that Teacher Niza had printed and asked the students to paste them into their books. Teacher Niza then explained the ingredients and steps to the students while I monitored them. They worked together to find the ingredients in the cupboard, and I helped them locate the right ones. The students were divided into two groups of five. They separated the dry and wet ingredients into two bowls, mixing them together under my guidance. They then took turns using the electric cooker to cook the pancakes until they were browned on both sides. Noticing some students were more dominant, I made sure to call on those who hadn't participated yet, ensuring everyone had a chance. After cooking, they distributed the pancakes fairly among themselves and even offered some to the teachers, which was heartwarming. During the session, Faris initiated a fight with his friends, and I stepped in to help break it up.

As usual, Friday morning started with recitations of Surah Yassin and Al-Kahfi. I monitored the students as they lined up in the assembly hall. After the assembly ended, we decided to hold a coloring contest and a word search activity with an Independence Day theme. That morning, I helped Teacher Niza print the pictures for the students to color. Then, I distributed the papers and colored pencils to the students. We had a break at 9 am, during which I assisted the students at the canteen. At 10 am, we all gathered in a room to watch a movie related to Independence Day. We chose the "Leftenan Adnan" movie for the students. At noon, the class was dismissed.

3.⁠ ⁠Points to remember from week 2

•  Make it a priority to ask the students how they feel and listen to their responses. These students often have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, so by being attentive to the students can make a significant difference. For example, Qalish once crawled under the table in the canteen because he wanted more food but didn’t know how to ask for it. Adam and Iman have dyslexia, which makes reading difficult for them. During activities involving reading, they struggled to keep up. Noticing this, I decided to sit beside them and help them read the questions. Bianca has dysgraphia, which affects her writing. She struggled with spacing between letters until we pointed it out to her. 

• Try to understand their circumstances. For instance, Faris has ADHD. This leads him to disturb his friends. Initially, I thought he was just mischievous, but I learned his ADHD caused impulsive behavior. He often acts without thinking, interrupting others, grabbing things from peers, or engaging in disruptive behavior. ADHD also makes it hard for him to sustain attention, so he quickly loses interest in tasks and seeks stimulation elsewhere.

  
  

4.⁠ ⁠Your feelings & thoughts

I feel incredibly happy to see that the students have started to open up to me more compared to my first week. Seeing them approaching me more whenever they have questions or need my help feels great. Interaction with them always brightens my day. For example, Adam, who was very quiet during the first week, has begun to share more with me. He even started calling himself “Abang” when speaking to me, which I assume that's how he called himself to his mother. This is truly heartwarming as I enjoy interacting with children. I am also very grateful for the activities planned for the students this month. These events provide me with valuable opportunities to get to know the students better.

5.⁠ ⁠ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

One valuable practice I've learned from my experience as a teacher for students with intellectual disabilities is the importance of patience. Working with these students requires a great deal of understanding and the ability to remain calm and supportive, even when progress seems slow. Patience allows me to create a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable and encouraged to improve at their own pace. This approach not only helps them feel valued but also promotes a more effective learning experience.

6.⁠ ⁠Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

Managing students with intellectual disabilities can be quite challenging. Despite my efforts to guide them, there are moments when they simply refuse to engage. For example, during a lesson where we were differentiating between steel, paper, and glass using cardboard cutouts, Qalish and Afiq refused to do so. Qalish decided to doodle on the whiteboard, and Afiq began sweeping the floor. They started to throw tantrums and cry on the floor. In these instances, I struggled to maintain their focus. Thankfully, another teacher intervened. Her firm approach helped regain their attention. After that incident, I always held a rotan in my hand to intimidate them so they would listen to me. 

7.⁠ ⁠Your plan for next week (Week 3)

For week 3, I plan to thoroughly familiarize myself with the timetable so that it is easier for me to plan activities for the students. I aim to find apps that are suitable for autistic students, as I’ve noticed that paper-based activities often fail to capture their interest. They tend to lose focus quickly unless engaged with tablets. Additionally, I plan to work on enhancing my communication skills and gaining a deeper understanding of the student's interests.

Name : Yasshini Priya A/P Manimaran

Matric number : A188294

Date : 11/8/2024

2. How is your progress?

My progress has been amazing thus far. I have definitely learned a lot, no doubt about that. This week I went to schools to perform standby duties. Standby duties are where schools request a first aid team from the headquarters of Malaysian Red Crescent Klang to assist them during their sports event and etc… Hence, I went to the stadium and schools for their sports day event to assist them on medical emergencies. Fortunately, there were no major casualties. Mostly, there were students with muscle cramps, sprains and minor wounds. Moreover, I got to experience prepping the ambulance; preparing the necessary medical equipment for the standby duty and getting a ride in the ambulance to the location. 

In this week I got to also experience the “big girl” duty, which I never thought I’d get to do. Hotspot duty is where volunteers get to work in the MRC headquarters of Selangor which is located in Petaling Jaya. It is when patients or victims who need medical attention in emergency situations call “999” for an ambulance. We get to be the first responders during those situations. In all seriousness, as much as I am a medical student, this was pretty nerve wrecking and real. 

I arrived at the office at 6.30 in the morning. The first thing we had to do was to check the conditions of the ambulance and ticking the checklist of medical equipment that are supposed to be in the vehicle. We checked the patient’s bed and even vehicle condition such as the fuel level, fluid level, the siren and so forth. While waiting for emergency calls, my senior taught me the admin work as well;the forms that need to filled out after every hospital sending. There were some medical terms which I had a prior knowledge about such as GCS score, and history taking knowledge. 

On top of that I was taught on the flow of events during an emergency, such as the first few things that had to be done during an emergency and the important information that needed to be taken down. When our first call arrived, I was pretty scared. We quickly equipped ourselves with gloves and masks and went to the scene. When we reached the scene, the old man who lost consciousness had already gained consciousness and the family insisted on bringing him to the nearest hospital, PPUM. Hence, we brought him to PPUM in the ambulance as soon as possible. After reaching the ED of PPUM, we had to hand him over to the medical assistants there. We had to get a signature from the officials from PPUM as a code of conduct and we left back to our office. After arriving at the office, I had to do some paperwork and report on that trip to PPUM. 

3. Points to remember from week 2!

As much as I’m grateful to be experiencing and doing this, I still can’t help but feel that everyone is vulnerable at one stage of their lives especially when it comes to health. They trust the medical professionals, hence, we should always be trustworthy and reliable. Time is absolutely precious and every second counts. 

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

This was my first ever time experiencing such thing, which is absolutely surreal. I was thrilled but at the same time terrified and nervous about my performance and readiness on that day. I also got to witness the situation from the family member’s point of view and it made me realise the importance of family members and their support in our lives. At the end of the day, it is them who is going to be there for us despite everything.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

I would say my communication skills was pretty good, especially with the family members of the patients. I had to build rapport and ask all the necessary information for our reference. It is something I will practise for a long time even throughout my career.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

The only downside I would reflect on is my lack of confidence. As much as I have no experience in that duty, I should trust myself more and not look down on my ability. I am more than capable of doing those tasks. After all, it all went pretty smoothly and I did a pretty decent job for a first timer.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

On the 3rd week I will be working closely with the officials of Universiti Malaya on a new project to teach students about first aid and preparedness during emergencies. It is a collaborative project between Malaysian Red Crescent, Faculty of Medicine of Universiti Malaya, Pasukan Bomba dan Penyelamat and Urban Preppers Malaysia. 

Muhammad irfan bin Mohd Nazri

A189561

9 august 2024

2.⁠ ⁠How is your progress?

After the first week, where we laid the groundwork by learning the basics of camera settings and composition, this second week was about diving deeper into the technical aspects. I’ve started to feel more at ease with my camera, particularly with the interplay between aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Initially, I found myself relying heavily on automatic settings, but this week, I’ve pushed myself to use manual mode almost exclusively. This shift has been both challenging and rewarding. The process of manually adjusting the settings for each shot made me more conscious of the decisions behind every photo. It’s no longer just about pointing and clicking; now, I’m thinking more critically about how each setting affects the final image

3.⁠ ⁠Points to remember from week 2!

This week underscored the importance of lighting in photography. We discussed how different lighting conditions can completely transform an image—from the golden hour’s soft, warm tones to the stark contrasts of midday sun. I also learned about the concept of "chasing the light," where photographers seek out the best lighting conditions for their shots. It was fascinating to see how the same scene could look entirely different depending on the time of day or the position of the light source. Additionally, the instructor introduced us to the concept of using light to create depth and dimension in our photos. This is something I’ll be paying much more attention to moving forward, as I now realize how crucial lighting is to the overall impact of an image.

4.⁠ ⁠Your feelings & thoughts

Reflecting on this week, I’m feeling a mix of excitement and growing confidence. The more I learn, the more I realize how much there is still to discover in photography, but rather than feeling overwhelmed, I’m eager to keep exploring. I’ve started to develop a more critical eye, not just for my own work but also when observing the world around me. Everyday scenes that once seemed ordinary now appear full of photographic potential. This shift in perspective is exhilarating; it feels like I’m beginning to see the world differently, appreciating the nuances of light, shadow, and composition in ways I hadn’t before.

5.⁠ ⁠ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

One of the most significant practices I focused on this week was shooting in manual mode. By doing this, I was forced to engage more deeply with the technical aspects of photography. This practice helped me understand how to achieve the desired effect by manipulating settings like aperture and shutter speed. For instance, I experimented with a wide aperture to create a shallow depth of field, which beautifully isolated the subject from the background. I also practiced using a slow shutter speed to capture motion blur, which added a sense of movement and dynamism to my images. This hands-on experience was invaluable, and I plan to continue practicing in manual mode to solidify my understanding and control over these settings.

6.⁠ ⁠Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

One of the challenges I faced this week was dealing with tricky lighting situations, particularly in low light. I noticed that when the light was dim, it was harder to capture sharp, well-exposed images without introducing noise or blur. Initially, this was frustrating because the photos didn’t turn out as I had envisioned. To cope, I started experimenting with higher ISO settings to allow more light into the camera, though this sometimes introduced graininess. I also learned about using a tripod to stabilize the camera when using slower shutter speeds, which helped in reducing blur. Another technique I tried was bracketing, where I took multiple shots of the same scene at different exposures. This approach not only increased my chances of getting a properly exposed image but also taught me a lot about how different exposure settings affect the final photo. While these challenges were tough, they pushed me to think creatively and find solutions, which ultimately improved my skills.

7.⁠ ⁠Your plan for next week (Week 3)

Looking ahead to Week 3, my focus will be on refining my composition skills. I want to delve deeper into techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry to create more balanced and visually engaging images. Additionally, I plan to experiment with framing and perspective, playing with angles to see how they can alter the narrative or feel of a photograph. For instance, I’m interested in trying out low-angle shots to give a sense of power or dominance to the subject, or high-angle shots to create a sense of vulnerability or overview. I also want to continue practicing in different lighting conditions, perhaps even venturing out during different times of the day to see how morning, afternoon, and evening light affects my photos. My goal is to develop a more intuitive sense of composition and lighting, so these elements become second nature when I’m out shooting.

1. Name: Farrah Dini Ellisya Binti Mohamad

Matric number: A187662

Date: 10/8/2024-11/8/2024

2. How is your progress?

This week, I had an interesting experience dealing with a CCTV issue. A customer who bought a CCTV system from our shop came in, complaining that one of his cameras suddenly went black. We went over to his stall to check it out, and it turned out that the camera was damaged by lightning. We also checked the other cameras ad well to ensure they were functioning, and luckily, only one camera was not working. Unfortunately, my supervisor couldn’t replace it with a new one since the damage wasn’t covered under warranty, and it had already been two years since the purchase. So, we advised the customer to buy a new one. At the same time, my supervisor took the time to explain more about the CCTV setup at the stall, which was really helpful.

3. Points to remember from week 2!

- There are two types of CCTV systems the customer used: IP cameras and wireless cameras.

- The storage capacity differs for each type. IP cameras can store video for up to a month, while wireless cameras only hold recordings in about 48 hours.

- Both systems can be monitored anytime and anywhere as long as there’s an internet connection, and they come with two-way voice intercoms, so the owner can talk and listen in real-time or on recorded footage.

- The system can also group up to four cameras, and the owner can watch the live feed on one screen through an app.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

- Honestly, I found learning about CCTV systems pretty interesting, though I was a bit overwhelmed. I had just started reading up on CCTV systems last week, and then suddenly, I had to deal with a real issue. But I’m really grateful for the chance to expand my knowledge.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

- One key takeaway for me is how important it is to really understand the products you're dealing with. I used to think all CCTV cameras were basically the same, but this experience proved me wrong. Different systems have different features, specifications, and storage capacities. Some can keep recordings for a month, others for just a couple of days. Knowing this beforehand is crucial. Just imagine if something happened at home three days ago, but your CCTV only keeps footage for 48 hours. That would be a real challenging to the owner.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

- Dealing with customers isn’t as easy as it seems. They often believe they’re always right, even when they’re not. If the seller doesn’t meet their expectations and satisfaction , it can cause issues to the seller and lead to lower shop ratings. To overcome this, it’s really important to clearly explain the product’s features, benefits, and warranty during the buying process so that the customer knows exactly what they’re getting and can avoid miscommunications in the future.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

- My plan for next week is I wish to get more hands-on experience, like assisting my supervisor with gadget repairs or helping with simpler tasks, such as replacing accessories on the gadgets.

Nor Hidayat bin Sukeri, A189507, 5-11/8/2024

2.⁠ ⁠How is your progress?

So far, we are still doing the UNHCR registration for refugees who require financial help with their hospital bill treatment. Every day, we received emergency cases to register which we had to process as quickly as possible. Kak Fatin and Kak Aina are the persons in charge of this UNHCR registration for refugees. They also ask us to review a few clinical diagnoses from the medical notes provided by the refugees to determine which cases fit the MRA Referable Cases Guidelines. Our role is to assist in identifying which emergency cases should be prioritized for registration. Through this experience, I learned that many refugees face financial problems, particularly medical support. MRA helps only certain cases that are very urgent to register for a UNHCR card, and later on, UNHCR will process the card and help with the treatment bill. That’s what we are doing here.

Next, on the weekend, we would be having a mobile clinic in a Kampung Orang Asli at Kuala Lipis, Pahang. So, we had to do some preparations beforehand. We stocked up on medications needed for the mobile clinic and for those that were insufficient, we listed them out for our supervisor to order. Since our supervisor was on an outstation in Penang, we helped by taking the medications from the pharmacy. We also needed to buy some supplies like batteries, mineral water, and paper bags to bring to the program. Our supervisor also asked us to run one or two health education modules for the Orang Asli that we had done before. So, we planned to conduct modules on brushing teeth and handwashing for the kids. Lastly, we finalized all the medications and equipment that needed to be brought, making sure all were ready and complete.

On the weekend, we went to the Kampung Orang Asli for the mobile clinic. In the morning, after breakfast, we walked to the village carrying some supplies and medications since the 4x4 vehicle could not access the village because the road had collapsed due to a water surge. So, we could only walk there. Upon arriving at the village, we set up our clinic at their community hall. All the Orang Asli from the village gathered there. We began by registering them on a form, which was then passed to the doctors. Then, the doctors called out their names for consultation. Following the consultation, we gave the medications prescribed by the doctors based on the forms. Here, I learned effective communication and how to provide clear instructions for taking medications. Additionally, I became more proficient in reading medical prescription abbreviations and dispensing the correct medications and doses as prescribed. Whenever I had confusion or inquiries, I asked the doctor for clarification.

In addition to that, I observed how the doctors consulted the patients and prescribed the medicines despite the limited facilities in the Orang Asli village. Their experience was very important in managing these circumstances. I also had the opportunity to examine the patients. The doctor asked me to hear the murmur, auscultate the lungs, check the abdomen, and assess the eyes. I got to see some findings and learned from the doctors. Actually, they are retired doctors working under one federation and collaborating with MRA for this mobile clinic. Next, we also educate the Orang Asli kids on how to brush their teeth properly, and we give them a toothbrush and toothpaste. All in all, I learned so much, such as what medications the doctor would prescribe to the patients, the doses commonly prescribed to adults and kids, and how to interact with the Orang Asli. Gaining these experiences means a lot to me.

3.⁠ ⁠Points to remember from week 2!

Being involved with the mobile clinic in the Orang Asli village has given me a lot of knowledge, experiences, and memories. I learned so much there and also had some fun swimming in the river beside our chalet. The sound of nature gave me a sense of peace. The doctors were so kind and generous in sharing their vast experiences with me. I feel really grateful for having that opportunity.

4.⁠ ⁠Your feelings & thoughts

Being one of the volunteers giving medications to the Orang Asli gives me satisfaction from helping them. Perhaps it’s a bit tiring, but it's very rewarding. I also feel inspired by the doctors' capability and professionalism in treating the Orang Asli in these limited-resource areas. I remembered what one of the doctors said, 'No treatment is also a treatment,' meaning that sometimes, the best approach is to avoid unnecessary interventions. Furthermore, in areas like this, we need to utilize resources wisely to ensure they are available for those who really need them.

5.⁠ ⁠ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

Maybe I can practice effective communication when dealing with the community, especially patients in the hospital. Since I have been doing this throughout the week, which involves communicating with refugees to gather their information for registration and instructing the Orang Asli on how to take their medications, I feel more confident in my ability to interact with diverse patient backgrounds.

6.⁠ ⁠Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

Among the challenges we faced was the road access issue, where the road had collapsed, preventing our transport from reaching the village. As a result, we had to carry supplies back and forth across a bridge repeatedly. For the medications, we could only take the specific prescriptions from the car rather than transporting all the medication boxes. Additionally, I had concerns about conducting the brushing teeth module, as it required water and I worried if there is no water access for it. Fortunately, there was a public toilet with water available, and we used cups we brought to collect it. My supervisor advised me that when working in the Orang Asli village, we need to adapt to their environment and be flexible, as not everything will go according to our plan. This experience highlighted the importance of being adaptive and flexible in such settings.

7.⁠ ⁠Your plan for next week (Week 3)

I will continue assisting with the UNHCR registration for refugees and participate in volunteer work, such as distributing food packs if available. Additionally, I will help my supervisor with tasks such as calculating the pricing of medication lists.

Muhammad Haiqal Irfan bin Razali

A188425

05/08/2024 ~ 12/08/2024

2.⁠ ⁠How is your progress?

My progress for week 2 seems very good. This week, I continued with the same tasks, contacting refugees and registering them for UNHCR. I also kept working on my module, which is almost finished. A new task was given to me this week, which involves entering the pricing data of the medications. Since one of MRA's objectives is running mobile clinics, the organization always keeps a stock of medications and regularly orders from several pharmacies. I need to enter the pricing data for medications from each pharmacy that works with MRA in the states of Kedah, Kelantan, and Pahang. There are a lot of quotations and order memos that I need to go through to document these medication prices.

One of the most interesting things during my second week was the mobile clinic program. This week, I went to Kuala Lipis, Pahang, to an Orang Asli village and stayed there for three days and two nights, from 10/08/2024 (Saturday) to 12/08/2024 (Monday). We volunteered at the mobile clinic to help the Orang Asli with their health conditions and screenings.

In preparation for the trip, I did a medication stock count. I had to count the medications we needed to bring, including items like metformin, amlodipine, loperamide, Smecta, lice shampoo, anti-scabies medication, and more. I packed them in boxes along with equipment like weight scales, blood pressure machines, stethoscopes, thermometers, and other necessary items. Since some medications were out of stock, my supervisor ordered them from a pharmacy in Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur, and asked me to pick them up. So, I drove there to collect the medications.

On 10/08/2024, four of us from MRA, including myself, went to the mobile clinic: my supervisor, a media team member, my colleague, and me. We started from MRA at 9 in the morning in a 4x4 Hilux after loading up all the medications, equipment, tent, and our necessities. The drive took around 2 hours. In Pahang, we didn't go directly to the Orang Asli village. Instead, we stopped at a food stall for lunch around 2 p.m. and waited for the other senior retired doctors who were part of this mobile clinic, volunteering for clinical assessments for the Orang Asli. After finishing our lunch and once all the retired doctors had arrived (surprisingly, I met two doctors who graduated from UKM: Dr. Tajuddin and Dr. Shan), we started our journey to the Orang Asli village. Surprisingly, the Orang Asli village was deep in the forest, so we had to take an off-road path with red earth terrain and no paved roads. The road was winding and full of bumps, making it quite an adventure. After a two-hour journey to the village in the 4x4 Hilux, we arrived and began unpacking our belongings. We stayed in a chalet within the village, which surprisingly had a homestay option. It wasn't a typical homestay; it was a solidly built house with three beds, an outdoor toilet, and it was located near a river. After settling in, we rested and enjoyed the refreshing river in the afternoon. In this village, electricity is only available from 7 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., so during that time, we charged our phones and used the lights. However, there was no internet connection. At night, we gathered in the dining hall with all the doctors and MRA staff to have dinner together, prepared by the Orang Asli who owned the homestay. We also had a briefing about our tasks for the next day. This Orang Asli settlement has many villages, so we divided into groups to cover specific areas. After the briefing, we had a campfire and enjoyed the night in the village. It was cold, refreshing, and a bit scary because of the darkness. At night, I was quite scared to sleep because it was very dark, and I could hear many sounds from the forest, like the river and insects.

On 11/08/2024, the event started. We woke up in the morning, had breakfast at 8, and then began our journey to the Orang Asli village assigned to us at 9. Our team consisted of MRA volunteers and two senior doctors. It took about 20 minutes to walk from where we were staying to the village, along a steep and challenging path. After the 20-minute walk, we arrived at the village and headed straight to the community hall, where all the Orang Asli gathered. I helped with the registration process. Some of the Orang Asli brought their ICs, and others brought their antenatal books (Pink Books). To register them, I filled out a form with their name, gender, and other details. The diagnosis and treatment sections were filled in by the doctor after they met with the patients. Since most of the Orang Asli cannot read or write, I had to take the information from their ICs or Pink Books, and many of them didn’t know their age. After registration, I assisted the doctor in attending to the patients. I observed how the doctor communicated with the Orang Asli and asked about their conditions. From my observations, many of the Orang Asli suffered from dental caries, which this mobile clinic couldn’t treat, so the doctor prescribed analgesics and advised them to see a dentist. Some of the Orang Asli also had flu, cough, fever, lice, and one patient had a systolic murmur, which I was asked to auscultate. The doctor advised the patient to go to the hospital and wrote a memo for them to visit Kuala Lipis Hospital, the nearest hospital, though still quite far. After the assessments, the patients received the medications we brought. The doctor wrote the prescription on the registration form, and we gave the medication to the Orang Asli, explaining the purpose and how to take it. Once we finished seeing all the patients at that village, my supervisor asked my colleague and me to teach the Orang Asli proper toothbrushing techniques. We were prepared for this task, having brought a teeth model, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. We distributed these to 20 Orang Asli, taught them how to brush their teeth, and they followed along enthusiastically. Afterward, we gave them Oreos as a reward, and they seemed happy. After that, we returned to our homestay, had lunch, and rested. At 3 p.m., we went to another village to do the same activities. At night, we had dinner, listened to the doctors talk about the day's events, and enjoyed the campfire again. On the morning of 12/08/2024, we packed up and headed back to Kuala Lumpur

3.⁠ ⁠Points to remember from week 2!

Experience Going to the Kampung Orang Asli

During week 2, I undertook a challenging yet rewarding journey to an Orang Asli village in Kuala Lipis, Pahang. On 10/08/2024, my team and I traveled in a 4x4 Hilux, which involved a 2-hour drive followed by a 20-minute walk over steep and rugged terrain to reach the village. This trek highlighted the logistical challenges of accessing remote areas and underscored the importance of proper preparation. Staying in a basic chalet near a river, with limited electricity and no internet, emphasized the simplicity of village life and the need for adaptability. This experience is important to remember because it demonstrates the dedication required to serve remote communities and the unique challenges faced in delivering healthcare in such settings.

Environment of Kampung Orang Asli

The environment of the Orang Asli village was marked by its isolation deep within the forest, accessible only via winding and bumpy off-road paths. The village had a basic homestay with essential amenities but was otherwise primitive, with limited infrastructure. Electricity was available only from 7 p.m. to midnight, and there was no internet connectivity. It is crucial to remember this environment because it highlights the logistical and infrastructural limitations encountered in remote communities. Understanding these conditions aids in planning effective outreach and ensure ng that interventions are practical and suitable for the local context.

Health Conditions of Orang Asli

The health conditions observed among the Orang Asli were diverse. Many villagers suffered from dental caries, a condition that the mobile clinic could only partially address with analgesics and referrals to dentists. Other common issues included flu, cough, fever, and lice. Notably, some patients had more serious conditions, such as a systolic murmur, which required hospital referrals. It is important to remember these health conditions as they illustrate the prevalent medical issues in underserved communities and the limitations of mobile clinics. This knowledge is essential for improving healthcare delivery, planning appropriate interventions, and ensuring comprehensive care for similar populations in the future.

4.⁠ ⁠Your feelings & thoughts 

For this journey to the Orang Asli village, I felt both excited and nervous. I was excited about the adventure of traveling deep into the forest, especially since it was my first time riding in a 4x4 and navigating such challenging roads. The thrill of exploring a new and remote area energized me. However, I was also nervous about whether I could handle the conditions—spending 3 days and 2 nights in the forest with limited electricity, basic accommodation, and no internet. Despite my worries, I’m grateful that I managed to get through the trip.

My thoughts during the mobile clinic revolved around the challenges the Orang Asli face, particularly regarding healthcare. The difficult and long journey from the main road to their village made me realize how hard it must be for them to access medical services. The winding, bumpy roads and the village’s remote location made me worry about what would happen if someone needed urgent medical care. Knowing that the nearest hospital is about 2 hours away really saddened me and made me concerned about their well-being in emergencies.

I also feel happy that I managed to contribute to the mobile clinic. I helped with registration, assisted the doctor in assessing the patients' health, provided them with medication along with instructions on how to take it, and was very happy to teach the Orang Asli children how to brush their teeth properly, especially since I noticed that many of them had dental caries.

5.⁠ ⁠ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

The one good thing I learned from this experience is that adapting to challenging environments is a key skill. During the trip to the Orang Asli village, I developed this skill by navigating difficult terrain, such as steep, winding, and bumpy roads, and then spending 3 days and 2 nights in a remote village with limited amenities. The chalet we stayed in had basic facilities, with electricity available only for a few hours each night and no internet access. Despite these challenges, I managed to adjust to the situation and perform my duties effectively.

This experience taught me the importance of being flexible and resourceful in unfamiliar and challenging environments, which is a valuable skill in the medical field. In healthcare, situations can change rapidly, and being able to adapt quickly is crucial. For example, I learned to work with limited medical supplies and make the most of what was available—something I can apply in future clinical settings, especially in resource-limited areas. Now, I can practice this behavior for a good future as I work towards becoming a safe and effective doctor.

6.⁠ ⁠Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

Communication:
There was a language barrier with the Orang Asli. While most of them could speak Malay, they were not fluent, making it difficult to give instructions. Many of them also did not know how to spell their names, read, write, or even remember their age. To overcome this, I used simple language to help them understand. Additionally, there was one educated Orang Asli who acted as a mediator, assisting us with communication and helping with details like names, age, and writing. For registration, I asked for their identity cards and filled out the forms for them. When it came to their age, I had to calculate it myself and inform them so they could remember.

Unexpected Road Conditions:
When we first arrived at the Orang Asli village, there was a water bridge that the 4x4 could use to get closer to the chalet. However, due to a recent water surge, the bridge was unusable, and we had to park far from the village. This meant we had to carry all our belongings, including medications, equipment, and necessities, to the chalet repeatedly, which was quite challenging.

Remembering the Brand Names of Medications:
There were many medications that needed to be distributed to the Orang Asli after the doctors prescribed them. The doctors typically wrote the brand names of the medications instead of their generic names, making it difficult for me to identify them. For example, a doctor might write "Benadryl 500mg TDS," so I needed to know that Benadryl is the brand name for diphenhydramine and that it’s an antihistamine. I also had to explain the purpose of the medication and how to use it to the Orang Asli. Initially, this was very challenging, and I made several mistakes. However, my supervisor was very supportive and helped me correct my errors. I did my best to learn and eventually improved in explaining the medications accurately.

7.⁠ ⁠Your plan for next week (Week 3)

My plan for next week is to focus on documenting the post-event activities of the mobile clinic at the Orang Asli village in Kuala Lipis, Pahang. I need to enter all the data of the Orang Asli who registered with us into a spreadsheet, including their diagnosis and prescribed medications. I also need to count the stock of medications post-event. Additionally, I will continue assisting with the registration of refugees at the UNHCR and finalize the list of medication prices. Most importantly, I plan to enjoy my third week.

Nagulan Ganeson

A188393

13th July 2024

2. How is your progress?

On my second week, I participated in Volunteer Induction Programme (VIP) as a non-medical volunteer. This VIP Programme was held at International Youth Centre, Jalan Yacoob Latif, BTR. This is an essential programme is for all new volunteers to get acquainted with humanitarian work and mission. One day before the event, I stayed at KTDI 1 hostel and on that day at 8am, I went the venue n registered myself before having a seat. Before the session begin, the emcee was request us to get to know among the participate volunteer which was quite interesting. After that they conduct the programme according to the schedule such as introduce the mission and vision of MERCY MALAYSIA as well as communication guidelines. The programme was end with sharing session with MERCY MALAYSIA core volunteers.

3.⁠ ⁠Points to remember from week 2!

. the code of conduct which is must know by every volunteer

. the important of practicing highest level of compassion, professionalism and care i

. The guidelines of communication by respecting people believe and privacy since this volunteer is mainly focused on humanitarian.

4.⁠ ⁠Your feelings & thoughts

I'm really exited with this programme. Even though initially i felt a bit nervous since I'm the only young adult who participated but the way other volunteer approach to me is really amazing. Even I choose this non profit organization volunteer program for the sake of fulfilling my elective posting project, at the end of the program i really thought want to be volunteering as long as can. In future, I planned to contribute this volunteer programme under medical volunteers

5.⁠ ⁠ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

I must understand that communication is a biggest key in volunteerism. A good communication can lead to a great teamwork. No matter what people going to judge me, I must give my best and try to accept the compliments from different people if they have any corrections. Basically we’re learning a new thing throughout our life. In volunteer activities, people from different backgrounds have interest in helping people. We must appreciate that intention rather than just degrading them.

6.⁠ ⁠Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

Since I'm an introvert person, at the beginning it's really hard to communicate with some random people. But I just take this opportunity to break this anxiety by initiating convo with the person who sat beside me. After we chitchat almost 20-30 min ,I never believed myself :)) until we both of us shared our number which is quite rare thing in my life. He also shared all the stories since we both of us come from different backgrounds.

7.⁠ ⁠Your plan for next week (Week 3)

For next week, I plan to volunteer any programme under MERCY MALAYSIA or other NGO. Since next week going to be my first volunteering as a certified volunteer , I must understand all the rules and regulation in order to run the programme smoothly.