The Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, has launched the 2025 iteration of the Community Posting (CP) for Stage 3.2 medical students under the University of Malaya Medical Programme (UMMP). The programme started on 19 May and will run to 11 July 2025. This year’s CP sees the participation of 18 student groups across 9 health districts in Selangor and the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.

Field-Based Public Health Education

The CP is a cornerstone of the UMMP curriculum, designed to immerse students in the realities of Malaysia’s health system, particularly the roles and functions of District Health Offices (PKDs). The participating districts this year include Petaling, Lembah Pantai, Gombak, Titiwangsa, Hulu Langat, Kuala Langat, Klang, Sepang, and Kepong.

Each group is supervised by academic staff and is tasked with producing a comprehensive report on their assigned PKD, conducting a health needs assessment, and implementing a health promotion project targeting a specific issue within the community. Thematic focuses range from maternal and child health to non-communicable diseases and environmental health.

Academic Integration and Community Engagement

Learning activities are diverse, combining lectures, case-based learning, fieldwork, and the development of public health communication materials. Students are assessed through reflective essays, peer reviews, supervisor evaluations, and project outputs. The programme is structured to encourage critical thinking, interprofessional collaboration, and cultural competence.

Building Future Public Health Leaders

The CP not only exposes students to the administrative and operational frameworks of Malaysia’s public health system but also emphasises the social determinants of health and community engagement. Through real-world exposure, students gain valuable insights into population health needs, programme planning, and the importance of evidence-based interventions.

Such experiential learning is essential for shaping future healthcare professionals who are not only clinically competent but also socially responsible and aware of the broader public health context in which they will serve.

Acknowledgements

The Department extends its sincere appreciation to all District Health Offices involved for their invaluable support, guidance, and collaboration in ensuring the success of this year’s Community Posting. Their dedication to public health service and student education continues to be instrumental in the development of future medical professionals.

Special thanks also go to the CP coordinator Dr. Maslinor Ismail, the assistant coordinator Madam Nor Zurina Zainol, and all academic supervisors for their commitment and leadership.