07/06/2026
MAA Community Health & Wellness Programme 2026: Building a Healthier Community Together
The MInTFM Alumni Association (MAA) successfully organised the MAA Community Health & Wellness Programme 2026 on 16 May 2026 at Sunshine Square, Bayan Baru, Penang, bringing together healthcare professionals, community organisations, sponsors, volunteers and members of the public for a meaningful day dedicated to health promotion and community engagement.
Held under the theme “Healthier Community, Stronger Together”, the programme aimed to empower the public through preventive healthcare, health education, healthy lifestyle activities and social interaction. The event was organised by MAA in collaboration with the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Penang Branch, Malaysia-Ireland Training Programme for Family Medicine (MInTFM) and Kawasan Rukun Tetangga (KRT) Bayan Baru.
The programme attracted a total of 232 participants and visitors, reflecting strong community support for initiatives that promote health awareness and well-being. The event was made possible through the dedication of 10 MAA committee members and volunteers, as well as the invaluable support of numerous community partners and sponsors.
The official opening ceremony was officiated by Dr Winnie Oung Ker Chien, President of the MInTFM Alumni Association. Distinguished guests in attendance included Dr Kavin Raj a/l Pergas representing MMA Penang Branch, Mr Khoo Beng Kee representing KRT Bayan Baru, Puan Mashazira binti Ahmad representing the Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN), and Dr Paula Greally representing MInTFM.
A major focus of the programme was preventive healthcare. Throughout the day, members of the public had access to health screening services, including blood pressure measurement, blood glucose testing and body mass index (BMI) assessment. A total of 148 health screenings were conducted, providing participants with valuable insights into their health status and encouraging early detection of potential health issues.
The programme also featured an eye screening service, benefiting 70 participants through vision assessments and early identification of visual problems. The service highlighted the importance of regular eye examinations in maintaining overall health and quality of life.
Health education formed another key component of the event. Participants attended a series of engaging and informative talks delivered by healthcare professionals and experts from various disciplines. The topics covered included female cancer screening, emergency response and AED awareness, healthy weight management, nutrition and healthy eating practices.
The speakers included:
- Dr Farah Fatimy Othman from Genesis IVF and Women's Specialist Centre, who spoke on the importance of female cancer screening and early detection.
- Mr Khoo Teng Giap from My AED4U, who delivered an interactive session titled “AEDs: A Life-Saving Necessity, Not a Luxury” and conducted a live CPR and AED demonstration.
- Ms Jessica See from Health Coach International, who shared practical strategies for achieving sustainable weight loss and healthier lifestyles.
- Dr Wong Meng Yee from the Culinary Medicine Academy, who discussed mindful eating and evidence-based nutritional approaches to better health.
- Mr Loo Min from ecoBrown's, who provided insights into healthier food choices and the role of staple foods in a balanced diet.
One of the highlights of the programme was the hands-on CPR and AED demonstration, which attracted strong public interest and provided participants with practical life-saving skills. Attendees were given the opportunity to observe and participate in CPR practice sessions, increasing awareness and confidence in responding to cardiac emergencies.
Promoting physical activity and social connectedness, the programme also featured a lively square dancing session led by Sunshine Happy Dance and KRT Island Glades. Participants of all ages joined the activity, creating a vibrant atmosphere while encouraging active lifestyles within the community.
Families and children were actively engaged through the Colouring Contest, which attracted participants from both Lower Primary and Upper Primary categories. Prizes and certificates were awarded to winners, while all participants were commended for their creativity and enthusiasm. The activity provided an enjoyable platform for children to express themselves while participating in a community-centred event.
The MAA Community Bowling Challenge 2026 was another major attraction of the day, drawing 35 teams comprising 105 participants, held at Aspiration Centre. The competition fostered camaraderie, teamwork and friendly competition among bowlers from diverse backgrounds. A total prize pool of RM5,280 was awarded, including RM4,120 sponsored by MInTFM, with prizes presented to outstanding performers across multiple categories.
Participants also had the opportunity to win one of 14 lucky draw prizes during the bowling event.
In conjunction with the programme, the MAA Family Fun Day Bowling Session brought together MInTFM trainers, trainees, alumni, staff members and family members in a spirit of fellowship and community bonding. The session involved 13 participants, with trophies, souvenirs and special awards presented to celebrate participation and sporting spirit.
Adding to the excitement throughout the day were the programme’s lucky draw sessions, during which 64 gifts and prizes were distributed to participants, creating memorable experiences for attendees and their families.
The success of the programme was made possible through the generous support of 25 collaborating organisations, community partners and sponsors, including Malaysian Medical Association MMA, Penang Branch , MInTFM, KRT Bayan Baru, KRT Island Glades, Sunshine Happy Dance, Genesis IVF & Women’s Specialist Centre, Lifetech, MyAED4U, Persatuan Diabetes Malaysia, Culinary Medicine Academy, Health Coach International, EcoBrown’s, Nestlé Health Science, Farm Fresh Penang, Sandwish Sdn Bhd, Big Nuts, Olive Tree Hotel, Penang, Fruits Chop Tong Guan, Haleon, Sunshine Bread Sdn Bhd, Raiya Toothpaste, Jin He Jia International Sdn Bhd, Nasi Lemak Sambal Lesung, Association of Resource and Education for Autistic Children Penang (REACh), and Lions REACh.
As healthcare professionals, we strongly believe that primary care and community health are the foundations of a healthier society. Beyond treating illnesses, primary care focuses on prevention, early intervention, health education and empowering individuals to take charge of their own wellbeing. Programmes like today remind us that healthcare is not confined within clinic walls or hospitals — it begins within the community, through awareness, collaboration and collective action.
It is our hope that this programme will not only provide valuable health information and services, but also strengthen the bonds within our community and inspire healthier lifestyles for all.
The MInTFM Alumni Association extends its sincere appreciation to all participants, volunteers, speakers, collaborators, sponsors and supporters who contributed to the success of the event. Through initiatives such as the MAA Community Health & Wellness Programme, MAA remains committed to promoting preventive healthcare, fostering healthier lifestyles and strengthening partnerships that benefit the wider community.
Together, we are building a healthier community today and a stronger future for generations to come.
