On 23rd May 2025, Master of Public Health (MPH) students from the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya took the stage to present their group projects under the Principles of Family Health course. These presentations were not just academic exercises; they were powerful conversations on the very real, deeply human issues affecting families across different stages of life.

The three student groups showcased a strong commitment to applying public health knowledge to complex, real-world problems. Each group tackled a contemporary issue that resonates with communities both in Malaysia and globally, offering insights, compassion, and solutions grounded in research.

Group 1: “The Silent Crisis – Female Health from Cradle to Elderhood”

Group 1’s presentation centred around gendered health vulnerabilities, with a strong spotlight on child marriage, a practice still affecting thousands of girls across Malaysia. Citing data from UNICEF and national reports, they painted a sobering picture of how poverty, cultural norms, and legal loopholes continue to put young girls at risk.

Their presentation also unpacked the less-talked-about burden on men, highlighting how societal expectations around masculinity can impact male mental health, particularly the pressure to provide, remain stoic, and suppress emotional needs. Finally, they examined the lifelong health inequalities faced by women, advocating for equitable access to healthcare from adolescence through elderhood.

Their message was clear: gender health disparities begin early and persist unless systemic, legal, and cultural changes are made. The team called for stronger policy enforcement, marriage law reform, education retention, and public awareness campaigns, especially in rural and underserved communities.

Group 2: “Economic Security for the Elderly: Addressing Pension Sustainability And Access To Health Insurance In An Ageing World”

As Malaysia moves closer to becoming an aged nation by 2030, Group 2 raised an important question: Are our elderly financially prepared for retirement? Their presentation focused on the financial struggles faced by older adults, from insufficient pension coverage to growing healthcare expenses.

Drawing on national statistics and socioeconomic trends, the group argued that many senior citizens face a very real risk of poverty, especially those without EPF savings or family support. They proposed actionable solutions, including expanding the social protection

system, improving retirement planning, and advocating for inclusive policies that protect Malaysia’s ageing population.

The group’s empathy stood out—they reminded us that ageing with dignity means more than living longer; it means living with security, independence, and peace of mind.

Group 3: “Analysis of Contemporary Issues of Adolescents: Understanding Adolescent Nutrition in Malaysia”

Group 3 explored the challenges faced by modern families, especially in navigating parenting roles in a rapidly changing society. Nutrition is a critical component of family health, and the presentation highlighted how modern lifestyles have led to significant nutritional challenges across all age groups. Among children, the rise in processed food consumption, sedentary behaviours, and lack of parental awareness have contributed to increasing rates of obesity and poor eating habits. In urban households, the reliance on fast food due to time constraints has replaced traditional, balanced meals. For the elderly, poor nutrition is often linked to appetite loss, dental problems, and limited access to healthy food. Issues made worse by financial constraints or lack of support.

The group emphasised the long-term impact of poor nutrition, including the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and developmental issues in children. They recommended practical interventions such as nutrition education for families, healthy school meal programs, support for breastfeeding mothers, and better food access for vulnerable populations.

In summary, addressing family nutrition requires coordinated efforts at home, in schools, and through public health policies to promote lifelong healthy eating habits.

A Step Toward Advocacy and Action

These three presentations showcased not only the academic strength of the MPH students but also their drive to become advocates for health equity. The issues they discussed, child marriage, elderly economic insecurity, and adolescent nutrition, are difficult but essential topics. Through clear analysis and heartfelt delivery, the students translated complex challenges into calls for change.

Their work proved that family health is at the heart of public health, and that the future of health leadership lies in those willing to ask tough questions, listen to communities, and imagine a better, fairer system for all.