SABAH MINOR GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAM 2024

Abstract

From October 14 to 20, 2024, the Internationalisation Unit of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) collaborated with Erasmus University and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) to host the Minor Global Health Program. This initiative brought seven third-year medical students from Erasmus University to the Rural Health Section in Kudat, where they gained hands-on experience in rural healthcare settings. The program was coordinated by Dr. Cindy Chin and supported by local health officials and clinic teams, providing students with insight into the operational challenges faced by rural clinics. Through clinical exposure and home visits, students learned about the complexities of healthcare delivery in underserved areas, including transport and accessibility issues. The program also included cultural experiences to enhance students' understanding of Sabah’s heritage. The initiative received positive feedback from participants, highlighting the effective organization and support from UMS faculty and staff. This successful collaboration sets the stage for future partnerships with international institutions aimed at enriching the Minor Global Health Program and addressing global health challenges.