Name: Loheswari a/p Krishnan

Matric Number: A195927

Date: 10 August 2025

2.What have you done?

I am doing volunteering in the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) for my elective posting. These are the tasks I have completed this week:

• Assisted in filling up registration data for individuals attending free screening.

• Learned how to perform basic screenings such as Smokerlyser , iFOBT and blood pressure measurement using a BP machine.

• Learned how to key in patient information into the official NCSM system which is National Cancer Screening Registry (NCSR).

• Guided patients to the correct stations for their screening.

• Observed how staff do the screening explain screening results like Hepatitis B and C and give advice.

3. Points to remember from week 1.

• Always double check data before submitting in the official website.

• Explain the procedure step by step to patients so they are comfortable especially procedures like how to collect fecal samples by themselves for iFOBT.

• Keep patient information confidential.

• Make sure screening machines are working properly before use.

• Helping other volunteers helps in making the process smooth and efficient.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I feel happy and grateful to be part of this wonderful programmes organised by NCSM including one occured in Farmasi Ariv. It was really hard to join much more programmes as I wished to as many people are joining this event as volunteers so I am very grateful for the lucky opportunity given. It feels nice to help people and learn at the same time. I realised that screening and early detection is very important to prevent serious illness. I also feel more confident to interact with patients and use simple medical equipment. As many people are unaware of this events, I hope to join many more of these evernts and spread information as much as I can.

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

• At first, I didn’t know how to use the Smokerlyser and was worried I might make a mistake. I also felt nervous talking to patients. I coped by asking the staff for guidance, observing them, and practising. I also took notes so I can remember the steps next time.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Learning & Rewarding

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

• Apply more event and try to join as many event as possible.

• Try to do more screenings by myself with supervision.

• Learn how to talk to patients who have abnormal results.

• Learn to talk to patients in a way they could understand better.

2. What have you done?

   We started off our elective posting with our very first meeting at the Volunteering Department of Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA). The team welcomed us warmly and gave a briefing on what MAKNA is all about and the story of its founder. MAKNA is a non-profit, non-governmental organization with a clear mission which is to mobilize resources in order to provide curative, preventive, research, and support services to cancer patients. Their vision is to unite all efforts, expertise, and finances from every sector of society to fight cancer and ease the pain, suffering, and challenges faced by patients.

   
   

   The organization was founded by Dato' Mohd Farid Ariffin, who was inspired to help underprivileged cancer patients and their families by providing them with financial, physical, and emotional support. We also learned that MAKNA’s services especially benefit the B40 group, ensuring that those with limited resources still receive the care they need. After we got to know about MAKNA, we discussed our upcoming activities and were given a set of questions to answer as part of the qualification process to become official volunteers. We had two days to prepare, so we studied the reading materials provided which covered MAKNA’s history, the services they offer, as well as general knowledge about cancer and its management. Thankfully, all three of us passed the test and officially became MAKNA volunteers!

   
   

   Later that week, on Thursday, we visited Rumah Perantaraan MAKNA in Putrajaya. The visit was to familiarize ourselves with the place and understand its purpose. Rumah Perantaraan MAKNA offers short-term accommodation for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy at Hospital Putrajaya and Institut Kanser Negara, particularly for those who travel long distances for treatment. Currently, there are 8 halfway houses across Malaysia, and during our visit, there were 5 patients staying in the Putrajaya house. The home is spacious, comfortable, and welcoming. There’s even a special isolation room for radiotherapy patients. Two staff nurses work there from Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm to assist patients with their needs. MAKNA also provides free Grab services to and from the hospital, which is a huge help for the patients.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• MAKNA plays a vital role in supporting underprivileged cancer patients, especially those in the B40 group.

• Their work is not just about medical treatment but also about emotional and practical support, such as accommodation and transportation.

• Preparation and teamwork are key when studying and completing tasks.

• Even small gestures like providing a comfortable room or free transport can make a big difference in patients’ lives.

• Volunteering gives me the chance to learn, connect, and contribute in meaningful ways.

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

   This first week has been such an eye-opening experience for me. Before joining, I knew MAKNA was about helping cancer patients, but I didn’t realize just how much effort and care they put into every little detail from providing a safe, comfortable place to stay, to making sure patients can get to their treatments without worrying about transport.

   Passing the volunteer quiz made me feel proud and motivated to contribute more. Visiting Rumah Perantaraan MAKNA was both touching and exciting. Meeting the patients there made me realize how important it is to not only treat illnesses but also make life a little easier and more comfortable for those going through tough times. I feel inspired to learn more, give more, and be fully present for the people we’ll meet in the coming weeks.

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

   At the start of the week, I was a bit worried about whether I could communicate well, especially since I tend to be shy when meeting new people. Furthermore, most of the staff and patients are a bit older than us, so I was also concerned that the generation gap might make our conversations awkward or harder to connect. I wasn’t sure how I would interact with them, but I decided to face my fears by making an effort to be more friendly and open. Fortunately, everyone at MAKNA was very warm and welcoming, which made it much easier for me to feel at ease. Overall, I haven’t faced any major difficulties so far, and the supportive environment has made the experience smooth and enjoyable.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• Exciting

• Inspiring 

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

   Next week, we will have many sharing sessions with cancer survivors. I plan to be more proactive and engaged during these conversations rather than being passive. I will also practice active listening and show empathy, ensuring that the survivors feel heard and appreciated. By learning directly from their stories, I hope to gain valuable insights that can help me connect better with patients and further improve my communication skills.

Name: Sharifah Adriana Risya binti Syed Ezmed

Matric Number: A196242

Date: 04/08/25-10/08/25

2.What have you done?

Initial meeting with the volunteering department of MAKNA

We held our first meeting with the Volunteering Department of Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA), during which we were introduced to the organisation, its mission, and its founder. MAKNA is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation committed to mobilising resources to provide curative, preventive, research, and support services for cancer patients, their families, high-risk groups, and the general public,both in Malaysia and globally.

The organisation was founded by Dato’ Mohd Farid Ariffin with the aim of supporting underprivileged cancer patients and their families by offering financial, physical, and emotional assistance.

Volunteer Qualification Process

Following a presentation by MAKNA staff, we began planning our volunteer activities. As part of the qualification process to become official MAKNA volunteers, we were required to answer a series of assessment questions. To prepare, we spent two days studying the materials provided, which included information about MAKNA’s history, its range of services, and general knowledge about cancer and its management.

Visit to MAKNA’s Halfway House in Putrajaya

On Thursday, we visited MAKNA’s halfway house in Putrajaya. The purpose of the visit was to familiarise ourselves with the facility and its operations. This halfway house serves as a temporary residence for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy at Hospital Putrajaya and the National Cancer Institute (Institut Kanser Negara). It provides short-term accommodation for patients and their caregivers, especially those who travel long distances for treatment.

Currently, there are eight such halfway houses established across Malaysia.

3. Points to remember from week 1.

• To become a volunteer in MAKNA, we need to prepare ourself with knowledge to ensure our awareness of cancer care and the organization's mission

• MAKNA provide not only financial but also physical support, such as providing the Halfway House.

• Hands-on exposure helps us,the volunteers, understand the vital role of MAKNA in the society.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I felt really happy and excited during our first visit to the halfway houses in Putrajaya. From the experience, I get to precisely acknowledge the role played by not only MAKNA, but also other cancer NGOs in helping society.

Other than that, I also did not expect that becoming a volunteer would require me to know the organization and its main purpose as part of the test and training. From here, it opened my eyes that the volunteers are not only people who care about others but also knowledgeable.

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

Initially, I found it challenging to study the material for the test; however, my friends and I prepared together, which made the process easier and more effective.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

• New experiences

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

I look forward to learning even more during next week’s volunteering activities. We’ll be attending a sharing session where cancer survivors will speak to current patients. It will be an incredibly valuable experience to hear their journeys and how they’ve coped emotionally, financially, and physically in battling what I believe is the toughest disease: cancer.

1. Name, Matric Number, Date

My name is Azrina Ibrahim with matric number A191741, and this entry is written on the 19th of August 2025.

2. What have you done?

During the first week of my elective posting, I had the opportunity to volunteer with the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) together with some of my friends. Our activity was held at the Fujitsu Company located in Menara TM. I assisted in carrying out body mass index (BMI) measurements for the people there, and it was such a meaningful experience to interact with the staff and provide a small service that could contribute to their awareness about health.

3. Points to remember from Week 1

One of the most important points I learned this week is the need to be more assertive. Being surrounded by other volunteers gave me the chance to observe and learn how they approached people with confidence, and it reminded me to work on improving this skill. Another key point is the importance of being accurate, especially when handling equipment such as the BMI machine. Accuracy is crucial in ensuring reliable results, and I realised that both the machine and my own technique play a big role in this.

4. Feelings and thoughts

Overall, I felt very excited throughout this week because it was my very first volunteering experience with NCSM. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet so many new people from different backgrounds, and every interaction gave me fresh insights. I enjoyed learning not only from the supervisors and experienced volunteers but also from the company staff who came forward for the screenings. This exposure made the experience even more meaningful and motivating.

5. Difficulties and how I coped

The main difficulty I faced was with the BMI machine, which was quite old and sometimes difficult to handle. At first, it was challenging to obtain accurate results. However, I was fortunate to receive guidance from other volunteers who had more experience. They patiently taught me how to adjust and use the machine properly. Through this, I gained confidence and also learned the value of asking for help and being open to learning from others.

6. Two words to describe my elective posting progress so far

If I were to describe my elective posting journey so far in just two words, I would say it is both fun and fulfilling. Every task, even if small, felt meaningful, and I truly enjoyed being able to contribute while also learning so much in return.

7. Plan for next week (Week 2).

For the upcoming week, I hope to join more volunteering events under NCSM and continue gaining experience. I want to keep observing, learning, and improving myself by watching how others interact and work efficiently. My goal is to make the most out of every opportunity, so that by the end of this posting, I will have not only new knowledge but also stronger skills in communication, teamwork, and service.

2. What have you done?

During my first week of elective posting at NCSM, I joined the Health Screening Program (HSP), which conducts regular screenings for employees under PERKESO health benefits. I took part in several programmes, including at Power Cable Malaysia and DSG Malaysia.

The screening services offered included:

• Blood taking (for blood tests)

• BMI measurement

• Smokelyser test (to assess smoking status)

• iFOBT (immunochemical fecal occult blood test for colorectal cancer screening)

• Blood pressure monitoring

• Doctor consultation, etc.

I was given the opportunity to be in charge of several screening stations, particularly BMI measurement and data entry. This allowed me to interact with participants directly, explain procedures to them, and contribute to maintaining accurate health records.

Apart from that, I learned about how NCSM collects patient data and the use of its database system. I realized the crucial role that data plays in health research, population health monitoring, and planning health promotion programmes.

One of the highlights of my week was assisting the in-house doctor during consultations. He guided me on how to explain medical knowledge in simple, understandable language for patients, and introduced me to some basics of medication management for hypertension. This was a valuable lesson on bridging medical knowledge with patient education.

I also encountered an important clinical scenario. During one of the health screening programmes, a patient was found to have hypertensive urgency. Multiple blood pressure readings were taken, all consistently above 180/100 mmHg. I observed how the doctor performed a physical examination, explained the risks to the patient, and strongly advised the patient to seek immediate medical attention at the emergency department. However, the patient was initially reluctant. This situation opened my eyes to the challenge of patient compliance and the doctor’s responsibility to emphasize risks clearly while also protecting themselves from medico-legal issues when a patient refuses advice.

3. . Points to remember from Week 1!

• The importance of early detection and screening in preventing chronic diseases and promoting long-term health.

• PERKESO’s role in providing accessible health screenings to employees across industries.

• The value of accurate data entry for both individual patient care and wider health research.

• Effective patient communication requires simplifying medical terms without losing accuracy.

• Hypertensive urgency management requires immediate referral and clear documentation, especially when patient compliance is an issue.

• The significance of medico-legal awareness in protecting healthcare professionals when patients refuse recommended treatment.

  
  

4. . Your feelings & thoughts

This first week was very eye-opening and rewarding. I enjoyed being directly involved in the health screening process and felt that I was making a real contribution, even in small tasks like BMI measurement and data entry. Seeing how each station plays a role in the bigger picture of preventive healthcare gave me a better appreciation for teamwork in community health.

I was especially inspired by observing the doctor’s approach to patient consultation. His ability to balance clinical knowledge, patient communication, and medico-legal responsibility made me realize that medicine is not just about diagnosis and treatment, but also about guidance, education, and professionalism.

The hypertensive urgency case was a strong reminder of how unpredictable patient encounters can be, and how doctors must remain calm, firm, and professional while safeguarding patient safety.

Overall, I felt motivated to learn more, and I look forward to being exposed to other aspects of NCSM’s work.

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

Initially, I found it challenging to keep track of the different procedures and protocols for each screening station. Since this was my first exposure to the system, I was worried about making mistakes. Fortunately, NCSM provided online training materials and protocol guidelines, which I studied in my own time. By reviewing the materials and asking staff for clarification whenever I was unsure, I became more confident and accurate in my tasks.

Another difficulty was patient interaction, especially when participants asked questions about results or procedures. At first, I was hesitant, but after observing the doctor and senior staff, I gradually learned how to explain things more clearly and politely.

6. Two words to describe elective posting progress so far

Informative, Engaging

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

For next week, I plan to:

• Explore other volunteering opportunities offered by NCSM, especially those related to cancer awareness and prevention campaigns.

• Gain deeper insight into how NCSM carries out community outreach programmes beyond health screenings.

• Be more proactive in interacting with patients and applying the communication skills I observed from the in-house doctor.

• Strengthen my understanding of how preventive healthcare and health promotion play an important role in reducing disease burden in the community.

Name: Nur Ain binti Tayib

Matric no.: A195796

Date: 4/8/2025-10/8/2025

2. What have you done?

We started our first week by scheduling our first meeting with the Volunteering Department of Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA). During this meeting, we were briefed about what MAKNA is and who founded the organisation. MAKNA is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation whose mission is to mobilise resources to provide curative, preventive, research, and support services to cancer patients and their families, high-risk groups, and the general public in Malaysia and around the world. Their vision is to pool and utilise the efforts, expertise, and finances of all sectors of society to fight cancer and reduce the pain, morbidity, and suffering experienced by cancer patients. Dato' Mohd Farid Ariffin founded this organisation to help underprivileged cancer patients and their families by providing financial, physical, and emotional support. We learned that MAKNA offers extensive assistance to cancer patients, especially those from the B40 group.

After the presentation by MAKNA staff, we planned our activities together and were asked to answer a set of questions to qualify as official volunteers. We spent two days preparing for the quiz by reading all the materials provided by MAKNA. The materials included the history of MAKNA, the services it provides, as well as general knowledge about cancer and its management. Fortunately, all three of us passed the test and became official MAKNA volunteers.

On Thursday, we visited MAKNA's halfway house in Putrajaya. The objective of the visit was to familiarise ourselves with the facility. This house is provided by MAKNA for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy at Hospital Putrajaya and Institut Kanser Negara. It serves as short-term accommodation for patients and their caregivers who travel long distances for treatment. There are currently eight such houses across Malaysia. During our visit, there were five patients staying at the Putrajaya halfway house. We toured the premises and viewed all the facilities provided. The house was spacious and comfortable, with a special isolation room for radiotherapy patients. Two staff nurses work there from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, to assist patients. Free Grab transport services are also provided to take patients to the hospital.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

1. MAKNA is on of the independent organisation that can provide support and help to underprivileged cancer patients.

2. MAKNA can helps cancer patients and their family by providing helps such as half way houses, food basket, scholarship and many more. They also provide emotional support program to the cancer patients. All this effort just to lessen their burden while helping them battling the disease.

3. The facilities provided by MAKNA are complete and comfortable. This shows that they are serious about their mission to provide the best care to the cancer patients who received their help.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I am mostly amazed by how much helps that MAKNA could offer to the cancer patients especially those under B40 group. Before knowing this organisation, I was often wonders how underprivileged patients especially those living in rural areas can receive and afford a complete treatment to cancer. As fighting cancer will consume a lot of money and times, patients in rural areas must having difficulties to fight the disease. Therefore, Iam so grateful that an organisation like MAKNA is actively supporting those cancer patients. I believe that all of their helps can really cause a change to the patients' life and help them through out the difficult time.

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

One of the difficulty is when we were planning for the activities. This is because the volunteering department of MAKNA could only arranged the activities according to their yearly plan and patents' availability. They are struggling to fit a program that we could join however, after a thorough meeting we finally get to plan the activities. Transportation is also a problem that stop us from joining some of the activities. Initially, there is a cancer screening program that were held in Kelantan next week. However as the program need us to stay in Kelantan for 3 days and MAKNA could not provide transportation and residence for us, we cannot join the program. Even though we cannot join this program, I am still glad that we manage to schedule another program to replace it. The program is a sharing session between cancer survivors that will be held next week at the halfway house. For me, it was a good problem solving experience that teach us to utilize the time we have with MAKNA by planning as much activities as we can.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Exciting, amazing

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

For next week we have planned to visit Putrajaya Halfway House again but this time to join a sharing session with cancer survivors and the residents of the halfway house. I am hoping to hear many stories about their treatments journey and how MAKNA has play its role in those journey. We also plan to offer some help such as cleaning the halfway house before the event so that the sharing session would go smoothly and the residents will feel more comfortable during the session. I am eager to learn more about the services that MAKNA has offered to the patients and how it has benefits the patients. We also planned to visit other MAKNA halfway houses such as the one in Gombak to compare it with the one in Putrajaya. I am very excited to interact with the survivors and cancer patients next week.

Matric Number: A195610

Date: 8 August 2025

2. What have you done?
In the first week of my elective posting with the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM), I embarked on my volunteering journey as a non-medical volunteer by participating in a corporate health screening event at Fujitsu Company in Menara TM Bangsar. The event was organised in conjunction with the company’s Health Day initiative, and I attended it alongside my peers. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed and given a comprehensive briefing by Ms. Sathiya, the person in charge of the programme. She explained to us the overall structure of the event, the sequence of activities, and the flow of participants through the ten different stations, which included registration, blood taking, smokelyser, faecal occult blood test (fBOT), Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C screening, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing for male participants, clinical breast examination, Pap smear for female participants, data entry, and finally doctor consultation.

I was assigned to the data entry station, where my primary responsibility was to accurately record the personal details and screening results of participants into an Excel database. The data included results from all of the medical tests and examinations carried out at the different stations. Although the task appeared straightforward at first, it demanded consistent attentiveness, accuracy, and efficiency, as there was a steady flow of participants throughout the day and the information needed to be transferred without delay.

3. Points to remember from Week 1.

• Accuracy and attention to detail are absolutely essential when dealing with sensitive health information, as even minor errors in data entry could affect the reliability of patient records.
  

• Receiving a proper briefing and adequate preparation before beginning the task greatly improved my confidence and allowed me to perform my responsibilities in a more structured and organised manner.
  

• The smooth running of a health screening event is highly dependent on teamwork, coordination, and open communication between volunteers, staff, and supervisors.
  

4. Your feelings & thoughts
As this was my very first experience volunteering with NCSM, I initially felt somewhat nervous and uncertain about how I would manage the responsibilities entrusted to me. However, the clear briefing given at the start of the day, combined with the encouragement of the organising team, reassured me and allowed me to gain confidence in fulfilling my role. Once I became familiar with the process, I was able to carry out my tasks efficiently and with a sense of responsibility.

I found the overall experience to be enriching and meaningful, as I could contribute, even in a non-medical capacity, to the success of a programme that was directly aimed at promoting community health and well-being. It was also eye-opening to observe how large-scale health events are coordinated, and how each station, no matter how simple, contributes to the overall outcome. By the end of the day, I felt a sense of fulfilment, pride, and motivation to continue learning and serving in similar capacities throughout the upcoming weeks of my elective posting.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
The greatest challenge I encountered during the event was the volume and pace of the data entry work, which required me to maintain accuracy while processing a continuous flow of information. As participants arrived one after another, the pressure to transfer their results quickly yet correctly was quite demanding and mentally exhausting. There was little room for error since the information would serve as an official record of their screening.

To cope with this, I developed a systematic method of cross-checking each entry with the physical forms before moving on to the next patient. This helped me reduce mistakes while still keeping up with the workload. I also made a conscious effort to remain calm and composed instead of rushing, which allowed me to think clearly and maintain consistency.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far
Insightful & Fulfilling

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)
For the second week of my elective posting, I will be volunteering at a health expo in Seremban, where another health screening programme will be conducted for the public. Having learned valuable lessons during my first week, my plan is to apply these experiences to approach my responsibilities with greater efficiency and confidence. I hope to be rotated to a different station so that I can broaden my exposure and gain a deeper understanding of how each component of a health screening contributes to the programme’s overall success.

 Name: Nur Atirah Binti Abas

Matric number: A195355

Date: 4/8/2025-8/8/2025

2. What have you done?

 In my first week of elective posting with the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), I was given the opportunity to take part in two Health Screening Programs held at Power Cables  Shah Alam and Fujitsu which is in Menara TM Bangsar. These programs were coordinated by Ms. Sathiya, who was the person-in-charge and responsible for briefing us, assigning tasks, and ensuring that everything went smoothly throughout the events.

The health screening program was divided into several stations, including registration, height and weight measurement, blood pressure, hepatitis B and C testing, vaccination, iFOBT, and smokerlyser. Each volunteer was assigned to a specific station to help manage the crowd and provide health services efficiently. I was assigned to the iFOBT station, where my role was to explain to participants what iFOBT (immunochemical fecal occult blood test) is, how the test should be performed, the step-by-step procedure, and why it is important for early detection of colorectal cancer.

This role required me to directly interact with participants and provide clear explanations. It was my first time taking responsibility for educating people about a screening test, so it was both an exciting and slightly nerve-racking experience. It gave me a chance to apply what I have learned in theory into a real setting where communication and public engagement are key.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

 There were several important lessons I learned in my first week:

• Communication matters most: It is not enough to just know the facts about a test. What really matters is the ability to explain it clearly, in simple words, and in a way that participants can relate to.

• Convenience is a deciding factor: Many people found the iFOBT troublesome because it required stool collection. Emphasizing that it could be done at home and mailed to HQ made it seem less inconvenient.

• Teamwork is essential: The success of the program depended on every station working smoothly. Watching how the different stations coordinated with each other reminded me of the importance of teamwork in large-scale health initiatives.

• Public health requires patience: Encouraging people to undergo screening is not always easy. Many people avoid it out of fear or inconvenience, but persistence and encouragement are necessary.

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

At the beginning, I felt nervous and slightly anxious because I was unsure if I could explain the test well enough to participants. I wanted to make sure my explanation was accurate, yet easy to understand, and that participants would take me seriously. Over time, I became more confident and started to enjoy the process of talking to different people.

I felt a sense of satisfaction whenever participants responded positively to my explanation, especially those who initially seemed uninterested. It made me realize that even small efforts in educating the public can have an impact on their health decisions. Overall,this week made me more aware of how challenging yet meaningful community engagement can be.

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

The biggest difficulty I faced was the reluctance of participants to do the iFOBT. Many of them expressed that the test was too much trouble since it required stool collection, and some dismissed it altogether without wanting to listen further. At first, I found it discouraging and a little difficult to know how to respond.

To cope, I reminded myself to stay calm, patient, and empathetic. I explained that the test was actually simple, could be done privately at home, and that the sample could be mailed directly to HQ without needing to return to the clinic. I also emphasized the importance of early detection, reminding them that colorectal cancer is often silent in its early stages but can be treated more effectively if found early. By highlighting the benefits and reassuring them about the convenience, I managed to encourage a few participants to take the test, which felt very rewarding.

Through this, I learned that difficulties in health promotion are common, but what makes the difference is how we respond , with patience, understanding, and persistence.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Challenging and rewarding 

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

For Week 2, I plan to:

• Be more confident in approaching and engaging with participants, especially when they seem hesitant.

• Rotate to other stations such as smokerlyser and vaccination to gain more exposure and broaden my understanding of different screening tools.

• Observe how others communicate, especially the staff and experienced volunteers, so I can improve my own communication style.

• Simplify explanations even further, making health information friendlier and easier for everyone to understand.

Matric number:A196203

Date: 10 August 2025

2. What have you done?

I am volunteering at the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) for my elective posting. This week, I have carried out the following tasks:

• Helped with registering participants for the free health screenings.

• Picked up basic skills in conducting screenings such as Smokerlyser, iFOBT, and blood pressure measurement with a BP monitor.

• Learned how to enter patient details into the National Cancer Screening Registry (NCSR).

• Assisted patients by directing them to the correct screening stations.

• Observed staff members as they performed screenings, explained test outcomes (such as Hepatitis B and C), and provided health advice.

3. Points to remember from Week 1

• Always review information carefully before submitting it into the official system.

• Describe the procedure step by step so patients feel at ease, especially for self-administered tests like iFOBT.

• Keep patient records private and secure.

• Check that screening devices are functioning properly before use.

• Support other volunteers to make the process smooth and organized.

  
  

4. Your feelings & thoughts
I feel happy and grateful to be part of this wonderful programme organised by NCSM including one that occurred in Farmasi Ariv. It was really hard to join many more programmes as I wished to, since many people are joining this event as volunteers, so I am very grateful for the lucky opportunity given. It feels nice to help people and learn at the same time. I realised that screening and early detection is very important to prevent serious illness. I also feel more confident to interact with patients and use simple medical equipment. As many people are unaware of these events, I hope to join many more of them and spread information as much as I can.

5. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
At first, I didn't know how to use the smokerlyzer and was worried I might make a mistake. I also felt nervous talking to patients. I coped by asking the staff for guidance, observing them, and practising. I also took notes so I can remember the steps next time.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far
Learning & Rewarding

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

• Apply for more events and try to join as many as possible.

• Try to do more screenings by myself with supervision.

• Learn how to talk to patients who have abnormal results.

• Learn to talk to patients in a way they could understand better.

Name: WILFRED CHEW MEE SHIN 

Matric Number: A194512

Date: 04/08/2025 - 08/08/2025 

2. What have you done?

A little bit of breakdown about how we get to go to the volunteering event, there will be an email of the number of events requiring volunteers for that week, then at the end of the email there will be a link to sign up and based on luck, we find out whether we’re accepted or not!

The very first week, my friends and I decided to sign up for 5 events, but out of the 5 we only got 2. We were so excited! Hence my very first event was HSP DSG. I think HSP stands for Health Screening Program; I honestly don’t know. Oh also, DSG is like a company that makes diapers.. At HSP DSG, my friends and I woke up super early as we were told to be there by 7: 30 am, as per most events but then everyone arrived around 8 am. This could be taken note of for future volunteer work. Kidding! At HSP DSG I was in charge of a station called “Smokerlyzer” Basically, it uses a machine to measure the level of carbon monoxide in your lungs. Before going, there was this google drive link where we had to watch and learn how to carry out different stations as we were not segregated beforehand. Furthermore, there was this volunteer training before we could actually volunteer, not compulsory but nice to have but we didn’t attend as we couldn’t make the time work so we were extra nervous! But we went there and everything was carried out smoothly. 

The second event for this week was at HSP Power Cables. At Power Cables, I was in charge of pre-registration. I wanted to do the Smokerlyzer again but as it was simple and there were newcomers, I decided to let them have a go at it! Hence, the person-in-charge put me in pre-registration. It was not too difficult but there were quite a lot of people so I needed to keep telling them what and how to fill in the registration forms and some of them could only understand Chinese so I had to be a translator at some point too! Also, after pre-registration was registration. This process took quite some time as we had to check their eligibility for free blood tests, etc. A few of the workers got restless! But by practicing what I learned during PPA and with the power of negotiation, I managed to calm them down! People can be so scary when they’re angry. 

3. Points to remember from week 1!

Big companies serve.. Good food..! Just kidding! Ahahaha Oh a very interesting thing happened at HSP DSG. I met one of the medical volunteers for NCSM who is a doctor. He’s a rather.. Interesting doctor :D OH anyways, there was this patient with hypertensive urgency while we were doing the health screenings. He handled the situation so calmly; writing a referral letter to the nearest Emergency Department and everything wah! As someone who wants to work in the Emergency Department next time, I was in awe. He even had time to quiz me on the difference between Hypertensive Emergency Vs Urgency. That was the only major crisis I think for week 1. Apart from that, key takeaways from week 1 is every station and everyone in charge of their respective stations need to work together to ensure a smooth health screening process. Teamwork truly makes the dream work! 

4. Your feelings & thoughts 

I was excited but scared at the same time. Excited because I finally got some volunteering opportunities but scared because even after going through the google drive on what to do I still had no idea what to do HAHAHA I didn’t want to get scolded for not being able to do a simple task well. But I didn’t let that stop me! If I were to get scolded for not doing my job well then it’s justified! Oh also, I just found out that NCSM has a yellow truck! And a purple truck! Like WHAT! 

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

The first time is always the scariest. I didn’t know what to do as it was my first time volunteering. However, everyone; EVERYONE was super nice and willing to teach and guide me. They said “It’s okay don’t be nervous, we were once like you too so we understand” I was touched beyond words! I was and still is very very grateful for them. 

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Grateful & Hungry (Well in terms of more volunteering opportunities, not food!) 

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

More volunteer work! Twice in a week is not sufficient! Why should I limit myself to volunteering at NCSM only HOHOHO I saw that Doctors On the Ground (DnG) are looking for volunteers too. Maybe I’ll try to apply there on days where there is no NCSM volunteering work! We’ll see!

Name : Rinishaa a/p Selva Retnam

Matric Number : A196285

Date : 04/08/2025 - 10/08/2025

2.What have you done?

In the beginning of the month, NCSM released a google form listing available volunteering events. I eagerly applied for a few but was selected only for the Insulet Malaysia Health Screening Programme(HSP) as a non-medical volunteer. Shortly after, I was added to a WhatsApp group created specifically for this event. The person in charge, Miss Geetha shared a Google Drive with briefing notes about each station, delegated tasks and provided details on attire, venue, and timing. Since there was no prior training before the event, I prepared myself by carefully reading through the station notes. On the day itself, Miss Geetha guided us once more, explained the flow of the programme, and taught us how to manage each station.

I arrived at the venue by 7.30 a.m. to set up the booths. The stations included were registration, blood pressure, BMI/weight/height, Smokerlyser, iFOBT, venipuncture, Hepatitis B and C screening, and Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) and Doctor Consultation. My first task was at the weight–height–BMI station. Since this was my first time volunteering at such an event, I felt both nervous and excited. I was seated next to a house officer who was also volunteering, and during our break, he shared valuable insights about working life , which gave me encouragement and perspective. Later in the day, I also helped cover the iFOBT (Immunochemical Faecal Occult Blood Test) station as well.At the iFOBT station , I was mainly responsible for explaining the steps of sample collection and ensuring participants understood the importance of stool-based cancer screening. What struck me most was how differently people reacted—some were shy or even embarrassed to discuss the test, while others were curious and asked many questions. I learned to approach each participant with sensitivity, using a calm and reassuring tone. Instead of just giving instructions, I emphasised why the test was important, which made them more willing to participate. This experience taught me that communication in health screening is not only about giving directions but also about creating a comfortable environment where people feel respected and motivated to take charge of their health.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• Approaching participants with respect, reassurance, and understanding created a safe environment for them to engage and ask questions.

• Staying calm despite the busy crowd allowed me to prioritise tasks, remain accurate, and maintain professionalism throughout the event.

• Value of teamwork is crucial as the event ran successfully because everyone supported one another; working hand-in-hand with fellow volunteers, medical staff, and the NCSM team.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I started the day feeling anxious, as it was my first volunteering experience with NCSM and I wanted to perform well since this was my first volunteering experience with NCSM. However, as the event went on, I grew more confident and enjoyed interacting with participants. I felt happy that I could contribute to such an important health initiative, even in small ways. By the end of the day, I was physically tired but mentally satisfied, knowing I had made a difference. The experience also deepened my appreciation for the work NCSM does in promoting cancer awareness and preventive health screening.

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

One major challenge I faced was the lack of hands-on training before the event. Although briefing notes were provided, I initially felt uncertain about whether I was handling my tasks correctly, especially at the BMI station where accuracy mattered. This uncertainty created some anxiety in the beginning because I did not want to make mistakes that might affect the participants’ results. To cope, I prepared beforehand by carefully reading the briefing notes, and during the event, I observed how experienced volunteers and healthcare staff carried out similar tasks. I wasn’t afraid to ask questions whenever I was unsure, which helped me gain confidence as the day went on. By the end of the event, I realised that being proactive in seeking guidance and learning through observation is just as valuable as formal training.Moreover, managing a large crowd and continuous flow of tests was overwhelming at times, especially when participants queued up quickly and asked many questions. I coped by staying calm, focusing on one person at a time.Team support also helped to redirect participants and ease the pressure.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Nervous but Inspiring

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

For Week 2, I plan to work in different stations to broaden my skills as well as knowledge. I also aim to improve my communication skills by preparing simple explanations in multiple languages so that I can connect better with participants from diverse backgrounds.

        Date: 08/08/2025

2. What have you done?

For the first week of my elective posting, I joined as a non-medical volunteer at the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM). My week started of with a volunteer training session held at the headquarters of NCSM. The session began with some ice breaking to get to know the coordinators and other volunteers. Next, we were given a detailed briefing on our roles and responsibilities as a volunteer at NCSM. We were then introduced to various tasks that volunteers usually assist with such as immunochemical fecal occult blood test screening, Hepatitis B and C screening, smokerlyzer testing, blood pressure gauging and plenty more. At the end, we all shared the vision of NCSM which was to provide education, care and support services to those who are affected by cancer.

Later on that week, I volunteered at my first ever event which was at Insulet Malaysia Sdn Bhd. NCSM had collaborated with the company to conduct a health screening programme for all the employees there. I was given the role to handle the data entry of the participants who underwent screening there. I had to enter all the data from the stations handling registration, BMI measurement, iFOBT screening, Hepatitis B and C screening, smokerlyzer, breast examination and pap smears into a excel sheet and the NCSM patient data website. Initially I expected my role to be quite easy as it was mainly non-clinical. However, I was proven wrong as the large number of participants required me to work really fast while making sure the information entered was accurate. During the event I also helped with the logistics by setting up before the programme started and cleaning up after it was over. I also learned a lot from the other volunteers who had different roles. I got to observe how the doctors consult the participants after screening as well and understanding how a smokerlyzer is used for screening.

On the other hand, as part of my self-learning, I studied on the cancer awareness of Malaysians. I read published articles, reports and materials on the awareness level of community, the potential barriers to cancer screening, and current efforts of NCSM and other health organisations to help the cancer society. With this, Igot a much clear understanding about my volunteering roles.

3. Points to remember from week 1!

• ‘Prevention is better than Cure’ NCSM is embracing this saying by playing a vital role in community health with prevention and early detection of disease.

• Volunteering at health events is not only about the medical tasks, as administrative and logistic work are as equally important.

• Teamwork is important for a successful event with no hiccups.

• It is important to fully understand your task and to do it properly to ensure smooth flow of events

• Volunteering offers a chance for us to connect with community and lend them a hand when it is most difficult.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I feel very grateful for this opportunity as it is one of the very first steps to give back to my community. It feels very unreal when I get to carry out and participate in activities that I have been taught about in lecture halls about prevention of diseases. At first, I definitely felt quite nervous about managing my tasks as it was my first time, but with guidance from the coordinators I got a clear picture and did well. I also had a lot of fun interacting with the other volunteers and participants and at the same time learning about their experiences. I also feel proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone as an introvert and deciding to do a good cause for my elective posting. I am now very excited to see what experiences my next weeks of volunteering will bring me.

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

I had a difficulty adjusting to the tasks given, as it was all very new to me. I also did not have much time to prepare as I was informed about being selected as a volunteer just one day before the event. I was then sent some files to go through before the event and to be honest I found them quite confusing. However I did not let that stop me, I made sure to go through and understand all those files before the event. I also came early and joined the briefing so I could understand my roles properly. I was not afraid to ask question and that helped me clear any doubts instantly. Another challenge that I faced was managing the long hours of the event which was quite tiring. However, I managed to maintain my energy and have a lot of fun throughout the event with help from the other volunteers which are now my friends too.

6. 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

- Exciting and fun

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)

• I plan to participate in more volunteering events and manage hands-on screening tasks

• To improve in carrying out my tasks both quickly and efficiently

• To practice communicating with participants and engaging with them more throughout the events

• To learn more about cancer awareness and how NCSM helps the cancer community in Malaysia.

• To document my volunteering journey with more phots and videos.

2. What have you done?
This week marked the beginning of my volunteering journey as a non-medical volunteer under the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM). I was assigned to help out at the HSP Fujitsu Systems event in Menara TM. My main role throughout the event was handling data entry, where I keyed in patients’ information into the Masterlist after their consultations with the doctor. At first, I felt a little nervous because accuracy was so important, but once I got into the flow, it became almost second nature and very rewarding to see the database coming together.

Aside from data entry, I also took on a few smaller but meaningful responsibilities. I helped distribute flyers for the health talk, assisted with photography during the event, and even had the opportunity to sit in on Dr. Leevya’s talk about cancer and shingles. Being able to listen and learn while simultaneously contributing to the smooth running of the program gave me a real sense of balance between work and learning.

3. Points to remember from Week 1
One key point I picked up this week is the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and not being shy about making new friends or connections. Events like these are full of opportunities to meet people with so much experience and wisdom to share, and it’s often just a simple conversation that can leave a lasting impression. For example, during a short chat with one of the doctors, she ended up sharing really valuable advice on life after medical school. That kind of spontaneous, heartfelt advice is something I wouldn’t have received if I had kept to myself.

Another important reminder for me was to always ask questions early on if I am unsure of a task. It can sometimes feel intimidating to ask, but I realised that it actually prevents mistakes later and also saves time for both myself and the team. This experience reminded me that asking for clarification is not a sign of weakness, but rather a way to learn faster and do things better.

4. Your feelings & thoughts
I really enjoyed my very first week volunteering. It felt incredibly meaningful to be part of something bigger than myself, contributing to the community while also learning in the process. I especially loved meeting new people and making friends with both the volunteers and the staff. There was a warmth in the atmosphere that made the whole experience feel welcoming and purposeful.

It was also very encouraging to see so many Fujitsu staff taking the initiative to register for health checks and participate actively during the talk. Their interest reminded me of the impact awareness programs like these can have. Personally, I found it exciting to experience the event in a corporate setting since it was held at Fujitsu’s office. Even something as small as being given a visitor pass that doubled as an access card gave me this new sense of exposure, like a small glimpse into a different professional world. All in all, it made my first week feel extra memorable.

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

Thankfully, I did not face any major difficulties during this first event. I think this was mainly because our supervisor from NCSM was very proactive and attentive, she made sure that every volunteer understood their tasks clearly and was comfortable with their responsibilities. That really helped me feel supported and confident.

On top of that, the online training videos we were required to watch beforehand also came in handy, especially for the data entry process. They gave me a good head start so that when I was actually doing the work, I already had a sense of familiarity with the system. Because of this preparation, I was able to adapt quickly and perform my responsibilities smoothly. Instead of feeling stressed, I actually felt motivated and more confident as the event went on.

6. Two words to describe elective posting progress so far
Exciting and Joyful

7. Your plan for next week (Week 2)
For the upcoming week, my friends and I plan to take part in other NCSM events that are lined up. This time, I hope to try out different stations beyond data entry, such as blood labelling or Hepatitis B and C testing. I feel that this will give me the chance to pick up new skills and broaden my understanding of how each station contributes to the overall health screening process. By rotating around and trying out more roles, I believe I’ll not only gain more knowledge but also become a more versatile and confident volunteer.