| Project | Kampung Sungai Tiang Health Programme |
| Objectives | • To complement current services provided by Pejabat Kesihatan Daerah Hulu Perak for the Orang Asli community in Kampung Sungai Tiang in terms of dental health services • To promote awareness of general health issues and oral hygiene in the local communities |
| Project Partners | Pfizer Malaysia |
| Activities | • Health Awareness Programme • Outreach Dental Clinics |
| Locations | Kampung Sungai Tiang, Gerik, Perak |
| Period | June 2013 – June 2014 |
| Accomplishments | One Health Awareness Programme |
Background
Perak has the second highest number of Orang Asli communities
in Peninsular Malaysia. The Hulu Perak District has a total of 47
villages comprising one of the most marginalised communities
in Malaysia. MERCY Malaysia reinstated its health programme
in Kampung Sungai Tiang in 2013 after identifying the persistent
need for health services in the area. The programme, which
previously only focused on oral health, now includes general
health awareness activities. This programme addresses the gaps
in the provision of health services in Kampung Sungai Tiang. It
benefits the community in having better oral health as well as
improving their overall lifestyle through awareness programmes
that address their understanding of health and their habits.
MERCY Malaysia’s efforts
MERCY Malaysia and Pfizer Malaysia conducted their first Health
Awareness Programme from September 12 to 15. The 10-member
team consisted of staff and volunteers from MERCY Malaysia as
well as volunteers from Pfizer Malaysia. The team conducted a
health screening programme with which to provide a baseline
that would later assist MERCY Malaysia and Pfizer Malaysia in
assessing the impact of the programme. The health screening was
coupled with a hypertension consultation that offered a one-toone
consultation between a hypertension-vulnerable adult and a
health professional. The one-on-one consultation created room
for a question and answer (Q&A) forum and the resultant greater
understanding of the disease for the village resident. Additionally,
the team arranged for a nutrition talk for the children of Kampung
Sungai Tiang to help convey the importance of healthy eating
habits. Hygiene awareness was also emphasised through a hygiene
talk as well as one regarding head lice treatment. 65 adults and 50
children underwent health screening and 45 children participated
in the hygiene programme.
This programme is part of an ongoing effort to raise awareness
about health as well as to raise the communal acceptance for
better oral health in the Kampung Sungai Tiang community
