ADVANCING KIDNEY HEALTH: RECAP OF WORLD KIDNEY DAY 2024

WKD National Event, Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur
9 March 2024

JOINT effort between the National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia (NKF), Malaysian Society of Nephrology (MSN), Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) supported by Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS)

This year’s World Kidney Day National (WKD)event was a resounding success, with a focus on “Advancing Equitable Access to Care and Optimal Medication Practice.” Spearheaded by esteemed figures including Dato’ Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Deputy Minister of Health, Malaysia, the event brought together key stakeholders dedicated to improving kidney health accessibility and medication practices in Malaysia.

Accompanied by Dato’ Lily Mushahar, President of MSN, and Prof. Dr. Abdul Halim Abdul Gafor, Member of the Board of Directors of NKF, the event marked a significant collaboration among leaders in the field.

One of the main objectives was to raise awareness about the importance of early kidney screening. The initiative, “Buah Pinggang Anda Sihat? Jom Check!” offered free health screenings to the public, emphasizing early detection and continuous monitoring.

A pivotal moment of the event was the Health Forum titled “Memantapkan Akses Perawatan yang Optima dan Saksama: Sejauh manakah Malaysia bersedia?” which featured esteemed panelists such as Khairy Jamaluddin, Dr. Rafidah Abdullah, Dr. Norkasihan Ibrahim, and was moderated by Dr. Fadhlina Zakaria.

The event also featured a range of engaging activities including the WKD 2024 Explorace competitions, health exhibitions, kids’ coloring contests, game booths, and lucky draws.

Sunway Big Box, Johor Bahru
2 March 2024

In a collaborative effort between the Southern Region NKF team and Hospital Sultanah Aminah (HSA), a remarkable celebration of WKD 2024 unfolded at Sunway Big Box in Johor Bahru. This event marked a pivotal initiative aimed at prioritizing kidney health and fostering a communitywide commitment to well-being.

The proceedings commenced with the official inauguration by YBrs. Dr. Hj Mohtar bin Pungut @ Hj Ahmad, Director of Health for the State of Johor. Esteemed guests, including medical professionals and officials, graced the event with their presence, further highlighting the importance attached to kidney health.

Throughout the event, attendees were treated to a plethora of engaging activities designed to promote kidney health awareness. Puzzles, challenges, and quizzes were organized to educate and inspire participants to take proactive steps towards kidney health. To encourage active participation and engagement across NKF’s social media platforms, a vibrant photobooth was also set up, adding a touch of fun and creativity to the proceedings.

Al-Bukhary and Dialysis Centre, Alor Setar, Kedah
8 March 2024

On March 8, 2024, the Northern Region NKF team hosted a vibrant celebration of WKD 2024 at the Al-Bukhary Masjid and Dialysis Centre in Alor Setar, Kedah. The event was a remarkable success, attracting significant attention and active participation from the community.

The primary aim of this meticulously planned event was to bolster public awareness regarding kidney health, with a keen focus on the early detection of kidney-related issues and the promotion of preventive measures. To engage attendees effectively, a diverse array of activities was offered, including health screenings, captivating cooking demonstrations, an informative exhibition, and health talks. Adding an element of excitement, a lucky draw event was held concurrently with the educational sessions, enhancing participants’ overall experience.

AEON Mall, Kota Bharu, Kelantan
9 March 2024

On March 9, 2024, the Public Education Department’s Eastern Region NKF team organized a memorable celebration of WKD 2024 at AEON Mall Kota Bharu, Kelantan.

This event was a resounding success, capturing the attention and active participation of the local community. A variety of engaging events awaited participants, including health screenings, exhibitions, a kids coloring contest, and exciting challenges. These activities were meticulously curated to educate and entertain attendees while emphasizing the importance of kidney health.

The event also featured health exhibitions offered by 7 exhibitors, attracting 54 eager participants keen on gaining valuable insights into kidney health. Additionally, 20 children showcased their artistic talents in a coloring contest, further fostering a sense of community and inclusivity across all age groups.

The Spring Mall, Kuching, Sarawak
9 March 2024

In commemoration of WKD 2024, the collaborative efforts of the NKF’s Public Education Department Regional Unit Kota Samarahan (PEDKS), Malaysian Red Crescent Stampin, and Blood Bank Sarawak General Hospital (HUS) culminated in a vibrant celebration in the heart of Kuching, Sarawak. This event, held on March 9, 2024, at The Spring Mall, aimed to foster community engagement in discussions and activities centered around kidney health, with a specific emphasis on early detection and disease management.

The inauguration of the event was led by Dr. Nur Izaidah bt Ishak, medical officer from Klinik Astana and COR Holder PED Kota Samarahan, alongside Dr. Adilah bt Ahmad Zafri, medical officer of Blood Bank Sarawak General Hospital. The heightened interest and active participation of visitors, estimated to be at least double the usual turnout, underscored the community’s keen engagement with the event programs.

A key highlight of the event was the provision of health screenings, with 66 participants availing themselves of this invaluable service. Additionally, a successful blood donation campaign, facilitated by the Blood Bank Sarawak General Hospital, further exemplified the community’s commitment to proactive healthcare participation.

The event boasted a diverse array of activities, including health exhibitions, informative health talks, a healthy snack competition, invigorating aerobics sessions, and exciting lucky draws. Notably, nine students from Yahos School of Skill showcased their creativity and culinary skills in the healthy snack competition, while 85 individuals actively engaged with the exhibition and fun games.

Taman Ujang Rimba Tropika, Sabah
9 March 2024

On March 9, 2024, Kota Kinabalu witnessed a significant milestone in kidney health awareness as the WKD 2024 celebration unfolded, a testament to the collaborative efforts of NKF’s Public Education Department Regional Unit Menggatal (PEDMG) and the Nephrology Department of Queen Elizabeth Hospital I (QEH I).

The planned festivities attracted individuals of all ages, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie in pursuit of healthier living. From invigorating aerobics exercises to enlightening health exhibitions and delightful coloring contests, attendees were immersed in various of engaging activities aimed at promoting kidney health awareness. The inclusion of captivating quizzes and enticing lucky draws further heightened the excitement, encouraging active participation and involvement from all quarters.