It’s the final week! Congratulations everyone, you all deserve a pat on the back for making your project possible!

Please write, upload lots of pictures & videos in this final Padlet =)

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

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

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

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

5. What can be improved in this project?

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

• Yes, I firmly believe that the objectives of the project were fulfilled during my two-week elective posting at Juntendo University. I had the opportunity to interact with Japanese students and discuss the differences in healthcare systems between Malaysia and Japan. The Japanese students, mostly in their final year, were very knowledgeable, and I learned a lot from them—not just in terms of medical knowledge but also about their passion and dedication to the medical field.

• From a cultural perspective, I also learned a lot and exchanged ideas with other international students who were also doing a clinical exchange at Juntendo University. We shared our traditional games, costumes, songs, dances, and, most importantly, food! This experience also allowed me to introduce Malaysia and my university to these international students, highlighting the unique aspects of our culture and education system, such as our diverse cultural heritage, bilingual education system, and the emphasis on community-based healthcare.

• Most importantly, I gained invaluable knowledge from the surgeons at the university, which I am confident will be beneficial in my future medical practice.

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

• What I enjoyed most about the project was experiencing the passion and dedication of the Japanese people, whether they were students or surgeons. The responsibility and courtesy displayed by everyone, regardless of their role, were truly inspiring. It was refreshing to see such commitment to their work and their willingness to go the extra mile to ensure that I, as a visiting student, felt included and learned as much as possible. This environment fostered a sense of belonging and motivated me to absorb as much knowledge and experience as possible. Additionally, the opportunity to practice laparoscopic skills and try out the DaVinci surgical system was a unique experience that I found incredibly rewarding.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

• The most challenging part of the project was definitely the language barrier, which is a common challenge for students posted in foreign countries. Although the surgeons and students did their best to explain things to me, it was natural for them to speak in their mother tongue, especially when they were busy or during ward rounds. This sometimes required them to keep translating for me, which I imagine could be tiring for them. Despite this, I don't think the language barrier compromised my learning process. I adapted by focusing on non-verbal cues, body language, and visual aids during procedures, which helped me grasp the essence of what was being taught.

4. What has really worked?

• I think the part of the project that worked well was the collaborative and inclusive learning environment fostered by the surgeons and students at Juntendo University. Their willingness to engage, teach, and ensure that I was part of the team greatly enhanced my learning experience. The use of simulation centers and hands-on practice opportunities, such as working with the DaVinci surgical system and laparoscopic training, were particularly effective. These practical experiences allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in a controlled environment, reinforcing my learning and building my confidence in surgical skills.

5. What can be improved in this project?

• One area that could be improved in this project is my level of preparation before the elective posting. I only began studying in depth when the elective started, which sometimes left me feeling tired and occasionally caused me to miss out on some important information or struggle to recall details during discussions. To improve, I should prepare more thoroughly before starting such an elective. This could include reviewing relevant medical topics, familiarizing myself with common surgical procedures, and perhaps even learning basic medical Japanese phrases to help bridge the communication gap.

1. Were the objectives of the project fulfilled?

• I believe many of the objectives of the project have been fulfilled. The business, though small-scale, has successfully begun generating supplemental income, which is particularly valuable as a student. The structure I’ve established allows me to continue operating the business even as the next academic year begins, though I anticipate challenges in balancing the demands of school and running the business. The fundamental base of the business has stabilized, including brand identity, product range, and customer engagement strategies. Moving forward, my focus will be on maintaining this foundation by consistently updating my Instagram page, regularly introducing new products, and refining my business operations to enhance efficiency.

• Additionally, I’ve started to develop critical business, entrepreneurship, and financial skills, which were key objectives of this project. Through real-world application, I’ve gained a better understanding of how to manage resources, handle marketing, and navigate the financial aspects of running a business. This experience has laid the groundwork for future entrepreneurial endeavors and has strengthened my confidence in pursuing business ventures.

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

• I have particularly enjoyed the creative freedom that comes with designing my own products. The ability to incorporate my ideas, opinions, and aesthetic into each piece has been incredibly rewarding. I take pride in refining my designs until they meet my standards, which allows me to offer unique, high-quality items that resonate with my brand vision The process of building my brand identity, from designing the logo to selecting packaging materials, every detail has been an opportunity to express my creativity and establish a distinct brand presence. The positive feedback from customers has been especially fulfilling; knowing that they are satisfied with their purchases and appreciate the effort I’ve put into the products and packaging is immensely gratifying. The support from my family and friends has also been a highlight. They have been pleasantly surprised by how professionally I’ve managed to run the crochet business, treating it with the same seriousness as a larger brand. Their encouragement has been motivating and has reinforced my belief that this business has real potential.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?

• One of the biggest challenges has been managing time effectively between different aspects of the business, such as product creation, marketing, and order fulfillment. Balancing these tasks while maintaining a high standard of quality has required careful planning and discipline.

• Pricing my handmade products also proved to be more difficult than anticipated. It involves not just covering the costs of materials but also accounting for the time and effort invested in each item, all while ensuring the price remains competitive and appealing to customers.

• Another challenge was sourcing materials, particularly when dealing with minimum order quantities and the reliability of suppliers. Navigating these logistical challenges while trying to keep costs down without compromising on quality required patience and persistence.

4. What has really worked?

• Creating reels and packaging videos has been highly effective in increasing visibility and engagement on my Instagram business profile. These visual elements have helped showcase the care and craftsmanship that goes into each product, making them more appealing to potential customers. This strategy has not only attracted new followers but also converted viewers into buyers, contributing to the initial success of my shop.

• The decision to use Instagram as my primary sales platform, rather than a marketplace like Shopee, has also worked well. By avoiding the higher commission rates and transaction fees associated with Shopee, I’ve been able to maintain better control over pricing and profits. This platform choice has allowed me to engage more directly with customers and build a stronger community around my brand.

• The use of personalized branding elements, such as customized fabric tags and stamped packaging, has reinforced my brand identity and added a professional touch to my products. This has been well-received by customers and has helped differentiate my shop from others in the market.

5. What can be improved in this project?

• One area for improvement is the frequency of uploading new products. Increasing the variety and quantity of items available in my shop will help maintain customer interest and encourage repeat purchases. I plan to set a more consistent schedule for product drops to ensure there’s always something new and exciting for customers to discover.

• Improving my time management skills is another area to focus on. By better organizing my workflow and setting clear priorities, I can ensure that all aspects of the business receive the attention they need without sacrificing quality or productivity. This includes allocating time for market research, product development, customer engagement and business operations.

• Additionally, I can explore expanding my marketing efforts beyond Instagram, perhaps by leveraging other social media platforms or collaborating with influencers to reach a wider audience. Diversifying my marketing strategy will help grow my customer base and increase brand recognition.

• Lastly, I can improve my approach to material sourcing by establishing more reliable supplier relationships and exploring bulk purchasing options that can lower costs without sacrificing quality. This will help streamline operations and ensure a steady supply of materials as my business grows.

2. What have you enjoyed or liked the most about the project?
I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to be out in nature, away from the typical hospital environment. It was refreshing to work outdoors, surrounded by the greenery of the plantation, and observe wildlife such as butterflies and eagles. I also found it rewarding to interact with the workers, understand their challenges, and ensure their well-being during the labor-intensive harvesting process. Experiencing a different side of life and developing empathy for those working in the field was invaluable. Overall, this project allowed me to gain a unique perspective that I would not have encountered in a clinical setting.

3. What have you found challenging about this project?
One of the most challenging aspects was managing the logistics of the harvest to ensure maximum efficiency while minimizing damage to the trees. Coordinating the workers' efforts to make sure no fruits were missed and organizing their breaks to maintain productivity without overexertion required careful planning and supervision. Additionally, I found it challenging to predict the optimal timing for each task, given the unpredictable weather conditions that could affect the harvest. Balancing these operational challenges with the need to maintain high-quality yields was a constant learning experience.

4. What has really worked?
The decision to implement a regular pruning schedule and apply fertilizer as planned worked very well in improving the overall health and productivity of the trees. These practices not only helped increase the yield by more than 10% but also made the harvesting process smoother and more efficient for the workers. Close supervision and active involvement in the harvesting process ensured that no ripe fruits were missed and that the trees were handled with care, preventing any potential damage. The teamwork and communication between myself and the workers also played a significant role in achieving our objectives effectively.

5. What can be improved in this project?
One area for improvement would be enhancing the scheduling and planning of tasks to better accommodate weather conditions and prevent any delays in the harvesting process. Additionally, investing in better tools and equipment for the workers could help improve their efficiency and reduce physical strain, leading to a more productive and sustainable workflow. Communication skills could be improved as well due to it being hard for me to understand their Indonesian dialect but I the workers were very understanding. Lastly, increasing the frequency of market price monitoring could provide more strategic insights for optimizing sales and maximizing profit margins.

Yes. I managed to learn several differences in the healthcare system between Malaysia and Japan throughout my attachment in the gastroenterology department for two weeks. Some of the similarities I saw is that doctors usually carry out ward rounds to ensure that the patient is well and doing alright before and after a procedure is done. Among the differences I observed is that the doctor there minimize the usage of phone when doing procedure, they usually keep their phone outside of the procedure room so that they are able to keep focus while doing procedure.

Other objective is to learn about Japanese culture and how it integrated into their healthcare system. From my attachment, I learnt that Japan has relatively high cases of gastric cancers compare to colorectal cancer. A doctor speculated that it may be due to the high salt diet in Japanese foods but due to a lack of research, he cannot say for certain. Besides that, I also managed to observe Da Vinci surgery during my time here. It is fascinating to see how far technology has evolved to the point of aiding doctors in surgery which was was thought to be impossible in the past. It was also interesting to observe the removal of cancerous lesions using Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD). Good to know that in Juntendo Hospital doctors uses ERCP as a therapeutic procedure instead of diagnostic to avoid harming the patient during procedure.

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

I enjoyed this project a lot because I am able to meet with other medical student from other country, talk about the differences in our medical system and learning environment. This is a brand new experience as before this I am only exposed to IPL with students from other courses. It was a surprised when I heard that some other country have totally different educational system and the way they learn in their university. It makes me feel like I wanted to go to their country to have a look in the future. Other than that, during my free time, I was also able to travel around Japan to appreciate the beauty of Japan and feel the different culture and environment there.

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

The challenging part for this project is the language barrier. Even though I am able to listen and speak a few Japanese word, I still found it hard when I have to communicate with the people there especially the doctor in the hospital when I want to clear my doubt. Luckily with the help of google translate apps I am able

to communicate with the people there and was able to express my thought to them. Other than that is the unpredictable disaster during my stay in Japan. I was encountered with minor earthquake and typhoon during my posting in Juntendo Hospital which makes me unable to join the program for a day. It was the first time I encountered this situation since Malaysia is free of these natural disaster which makes me feel lucky that I am born and lived in Malaysia.

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

Some of the things that worked well includes the learning sessions. I was able to observe many different cases and subsequently learnt a lot during my time at

Juntendo University Hospital. The explanations given by my supervisors were very informative and I believe the notes I wrote while I was there will prove useful for the future. 

Another thing that worked well is my time management. As my time in Japan is limited, I made a list of places to go while I am there and compile them according to place and distance. I integrated the list I made into the schedule the university provides to maximize the time I have in Japan. As such, I was able to visit most of the places I plan to visit without missing my clinical observership. I am also have the opportunity to try several food that are not available in Malaysia.

5. What can be improved in this project?

My personal thought of what can be improved in this project is firstly I should learn some basic Japanese before I attend to this program in order to allow me to speak normally to people there. Other than that, I should also do more research about the medical cases in Japan so that I am able to learn the differences in common cases in Japan compared to Malaysia. Finally, I should also do some further research about the procedure that the hospital provided which are not available in Malaysia.

1. Were the objectives of the project fullfilled?

Yes. During my elective posting, I gained valuable knowledge and observed many things I had never experienced before. I learned a lot about hospital settings, treatment plans, ward rounds, department meetings, and various surgical methods and instruments, including the Da Vinci robotic surgery. I also became familiar with the surgical room environment, the staff, and the overall hospital workflow. Additionally, I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing Japanese culture and daily life, which felt quite different from Malaysia. I even had the opportunity to visit many places I had always wanted to see. This experience has undoubtedly enriched my perspective.

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

What I enjoyed most during my project was the overwhelming kindness of the hospital staff, who always helped me whenever I was lost or needed guidance. My supervising doctor was incredibly supportive, offering valuable assistance and teaching throughout the surgeries, which made the learning process even more engaging. I was particularly impressed by the Japanese medical system—the efficiency, precision, and high quality of care left a lasting impression on me. Beyond the hospital, I also thoroughly enjoyed Japan's daily life. I loved exploring their rich culture, savoring the delicious food, and visiting beautiful places. This experience allowed me to immerse myself in a lifestyle that felt both new and inspiring, enriching my understanding in so many ways.

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

What I found most challenging during my elective was the weather, as I visited Japan in the summer when temperatures reached around 37°C at noon. Walking around in the intense heat was exhausting, and I often felt drowsy during the day due to the high temperatures. Another significant challenge was the language barrier. Many people, even in the hospital, had limited fluency in English, which made communication difficult at times. Additionally, being only a third-year medical student, I found it tough to keep up with the surgical rotations, as there was still so much more for me to learn and absorb. These challenges, while difficult, pushed me to adapt and grow throughout the experience.

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

What truly stood out as effective during my elective was the schedule designed by Juntendo University. It was incredibly well-organized and thoughtfully tailored to suit the needs of medical students. The program struck a perfect balance—it was neither too exhausting nor too relaxed, ensuring that I was consistently engaged without feeling overwhelmed. The structure allowed for a steady flow of learning opportunities, keeping me busy enough to absorb new knowledge without the burnout that can come with overly packed schedules. Over the course of two weeks in the hospital, I was able to dive deep into various medical practices and surgical techniques, gaining hands-on experience while still having the energy to reflect on and retain what I learned. The balance in the schedule helped me make the most of every moment, and it created a conducive learning environment where I could thrive both academically and personally.

5. What can be improved in this project?

While the project was highly beneficial, there are a few areas that could be improved to enhance the experience even further. One key aspect would be addressing the language barrier, as many staff members, including doctors, had limited fluency in English. Providing language support or pairing students with bilingual staff could help bridge this gap and improve communication. Additionally, offering more tailored guidance for younger medical students, like those in their third year, would be valuable, as some of the more advanced surgical procedures were difficult to follow without a deeper foundation of knowledge. Lastly, offering more opportunities for cultural immersion outside of the hospital setting could enrich the overall experience, allowing students to engage with the local culture in a more structured way. These adjustments could make the project even more comprehensive and accessible.

Reflecting on my objectives for the IVHQ Medical Project in New Delhi, I can confidently say that most of them were fulfilled, enriching my experience significantly. One of my primary goals was to learn about the Indian healthcare system, and I had the opportunity to volunteer extensively in the clinic. This hands-on experience allowed me to understand the challenges and dynamics of healthcare in India while treating and assisting patients, which was both fulfilling and educational.

Interacting with local people was another key objective, and I immersed myself in the culture by engaging with patients and community members. This not only deepened my understanding of their customs and traditions but also fostered meaningful connections, enhancing my cultural appreciation. Traveling solo to tourist spots was a personal milestone for me, as it marked my first independent trip. This experience not only challenged me to navigate a new environment but also boosted my confidence in being self-sufficient.

Meeting fellow volunteers from diverse backgrounds was another objective I cherished. I made lasting friendships with individuals from all over the world, enriching my perspective and creating a supportive network during my time in India. Overall, my objectives were not only met but exceeded, providing me with invaluable experiences that I will carry with me long after the program ends.

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

One of the most enjoyable aspects of my experience with the IVHQ Medical Project in New Delhi was the opportunity to explore the vibrant culture and rich history of India during my weekends and evenings. Alongside my fellow volunteers, we ventured out into the bustling streets of Delhi, indulging in its delicious cuisine at various restaurants. One standout dish was butter chicken, a creamy tomato-based curry that perfectly captured the essence of Indian flavors. We also enjoyed street food like chaat, a savory snack that combined crispy textures with tangy chutneys, showcasing the local culinary creativity.

Our explorations led us to lively markets such as Chandni Chowk, where the colorful stalls offered everything from textiles to spices. Navigating the chaotic yet exhilarating streets in a tuk-tuk added to the excitement, as we zipped through the city, taking in the sights and sounds of Delhi. Each outing deepened my appreciation for the local culture and created unforgettable memories with my fellow volunteers.

A highlight of my adventure was a weekend trip to Jaipur, known as the "Pink City." Riding elephants at Amber Fort was a surreal experience, allowing me to connect with these magnificent creatures while taking in stunning views of the fort’s architecture. We also visited iconic landmarks such as the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, and the City Palace, where I marveled at the intricate details of Rajasthani design. Shopping for souvenirs in the local markets allowed me to bring a piece of Jaipur back home, making the experience even more memorable.

On my last day, I traveled to Agra to witness the breathtaking Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Learning about the history behind these landmarks was particularly touching. The Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, symbolizes eternal love and dedication. The emotional story behind its construction, alongside its stunning architectural beauty, left a lasting impression on me. Visiting the marble-making workshops nearby was equally fascinating, as I learned that many of the workers were descendants of those who helped build the Taj Mahal, connecting me to the history in a profound way.

Overall, while the volunteering experience in the clinic was rewarding and fulfilling, the cultural excursions and social interactions made my time in India truly unforgettable. Engaging with the local community, tasting exquisite food, and exploring historical sites contributed immensely to my growth, making this project one of the best experiences of my life.

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

Throughout my experience with the IVHQ Medical Project in New Delhi, I encountered several challenges that tested my adaptability and resilience. One significant hurdle was the language barrier. While many locals spoke some English, the level of fluency varied, making communication difficult at times. This sometimes led to misunderstandings when interacting with patients in the clinic or when trying to navigate the bustling streets of Delhi. To cope with this, I relied on basic Hindi phrases and non-verbal communication, which helped bridge the gap and foster connections, albeit imperfectly.

Another challenge I faced was encountering overpriced goods in local markets and tourist areas. As a newcomer, I sometimes found it difficult to discern fair prices, leading to moments of frustration when I realized I had paid more than necessary for certain items. This experience taught me the importance of research and negotiation, which are vital skills in a market setting. I learned to ask locals for advice on prices and to engage in haggling, which not only helped me save money but also enriched my interactions with vendors.

These challenges ultimately contributed to my personal growth, making the experience even more rewarding.

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

One aspect of the IVHQ Medical Project in New Delhi that truly worked well was the structured volunteer training and support provided by the organization. Before my arrival, the online Volunteer Training Program equipped me with essential knowledge about the Indian healthcare system, cultural nuances, and the specific expectations for my role in the clinic. This preparation helped me transition smoothly into the volunteer experience and made me feel more confident in my abilities.

Additionally, the on-ground support from the IVHQ team was invaluable. They organized regular orientation sessions that not only introduced us to the local culture but also helped us understand our roles in the clinic more effectively. This support extended to facilitating our interactions with patients, ensuring we were well-prepared to contribute positively to the healthcare environment.

Furthermore, the camaraderie among fellow volunteers fostered a strong sense of community. This collaborative spirit created an environment where we could share our experiences, learn from each other, and provide emotional support throughout our journey. Engaging in team-building activities during our downtime allowed us to bond and form lasting friendships, enriching the overall experience.

The combination of thorough preparation, strong support, and a sense of community truly enhanced my time in the project, allowing me to focus on making a meaningful impact while enjoying my stay in India.

5. What can be improved in this project?

While my experience with the IVHQ Medical Project in New Delhi was largely positive, there are areas for improvement. Enhancing language support for volunteers could significantly ease communication barriers, making it easier to connect with local patients and staff. Additionally, providing more detailed guidance on fair pricing in local markets would help newcomers avoid overpaying for goods. Finally, offering more cultural immersion activities, such as cooking classes or guided tours, could deepen our understanding of the local culture and enhance our overall experience.

Healing in the heart of India 🇮🇳: Medical Volunteering in New Delhi