Curtin Malaysia’s ‘Healthy Schools, Safe Futures’ programme inspires safer and healthier communities

Miri, Sarawak – 03 September 2024 – Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) is marking its 25th anniversary with a transformative initiative aimed at empowering schools and communities through its ‘Healthy Schools, Safe Futures’ programme. The year-long series of events, led by the Department of Health Sciences at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, underscores the university’s commitment to enhancing health, safety, and well-being in Miri’s education sector.

Spearheaded by the department’s head, Rona Bang Tan, the programme has become a beacon of community engagement, offering students and educators vital tools for navigating today’s challenges while building a foundation for a healthier future.

The programme was first launched in April with an impactful Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Awareness event at SMK St. Columba, drawing in a remarkable 1,030 students and 70 teachers across two interactive sessions. The event featured engaging talks by Rona and associate lecturer Josifirin Uding Anak Rangga, who emphasised the importance of safety-conscious habits and environmental stewardship among youth. The turnout and enthusiasm demonstrated a growing awareness of these critical issues within the school community.

Building on this momentum, Curtin Malaysia hosted a series of ‘Anti-Sexual Harassment, Cyberbullying, and Anti-Smoking’ awareness talks at SMK Chung Hua Miri in May, attended by over 350 students and teachers. Lecturers Dr. Mitshel Lino and Dr. Ngu Ik Ying delivered compelling messages, equipping participants with practical knowledge to tackle these pressing issues. The event also featured a collaboration with the local health district office, offering students eye-opening insights into the dangers of vaping and smoking.

Understanding that teachers are key drivers of change, Curtin Malaysia organised the ‘Excel U’ Programme for Teachers’, back at SMK St. Columba. Seventy teachers took part in this professional development workshop, led by senior lecturer Dr. Low Wai Wah and lecturer Nur Yusrina Muhammad Hams. The workshop provided hands-on strategies for enhancing both teaching efficacy and well-being, ensuring that educators are well-prepared to guide and inspire their students.

The final event of the programme, the ‘Positive Minds’ workshop, took place on August 16 at SMK Chung Hua Miri. Focused on mental health and well-being, the event was attended by 120 teachers. Facilitated by Curtin Malaysia’s Director of Health, Counselling and Disability Services and senior lecturer Dr. Adeline Wong Nyet Ngo and Dr. Mitshel Lino, the workshop equipped educators with techniques to manage stress and build resilience, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for their students. This event highlighted Curtin Malaysia’s holistic approach to education, where both mental and physical well-being are prioritised.

Reflecting on the success of the initiative, Professor Roy Rillera Marzo, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Health Sciences, shared his pride in the programme’s outcomes.

“This initiative is a powerful demonstration of Curtin Malaysia’s dedication to investing in the future of our community. By empowering both students and teachers with the knowledge and resources to create safer, healthier learning environments, we are contributing to a more resilient society,” he said.

“The ‘Healthy Schools, Safe Futures’ programme embodies our mission to drive positive social impact through education. I couldn’t be prouder of the Department of Health Sciences for leading this remarkable effort.”

With its holistic approach and community-centred focus, the ‘Healthy Schools, Safe Futures’ programme not only marks a milestone in Curtin Malaysia’s 25-year journey but also lays the groundwork for healthier, safer, and more inclusive communities in Miri and beyond.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Rona Bang Tan (front row, 3rd from right) with her team alongside teachers and students during the HSE Awareness event at SMK St. Columba

Dr. Mitshel Lino (standing, 2nd right) delivering a talk on anti-sexual harassment and cyberbullying at SMK Chung Hua

Curtin Malaysia lecturers posing with teachers during the Positive Minds workshop at SMK Chung Hua