04/07/2026

SATURDAY | JULY 4, 2026

COMMUNITY 7

Travel medicine urgency amid global health threats

KUALA LUMPUR: Health and travel communities have called for greater awareness on the importance of travel medicine in safeguarding public wellbeing. They emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration for this purpose, especially in view of increasing global mobility and the risks posed by emerging infectious diseases. The assertion was made during the 2nd IMU University Travel Medicine Seminar 2026 held recently. The event was convened by IMU University, in partnership with the Malaysian Medical Association, Malaysia Healthcare Travel

o Seminar held in light of heightened vigilance following infectious disease outbreaks in several regions

rebound rapidly. “Travel medicine is no longer a peripheral service. It is an essential component of preventive healthcare and national health security,” he said in his speech. He also noted the importance of early risk assessment, disease surveillance, vaccination and traveler education. The seminar was held amid heightened global vigilance following reports of emerging infectious disease outbreaks in several regions, including hantavirus infections linked to international cruise travel and Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa. While Malaysia has not reported any related cases, authorities continue to strengthen monitoring and surveillance measures at entry points. Experts at the seminar noted that increased global movement exposes travellers to a broader range of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, including mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue and malaria, as well as airborne and respiratory infections. Recent data shows Malaysians made 66.6 million outbound trips in 2025. In the same year, 42.2 million foreign tourists visited the country. Despite these figures, studies indicate only 40.5% of Malaysians seek medical advice before travelling, and just 52.8% receive pre-travel vaccinations. Travel medicine focuses on preparing travellers to reduce health risks and prevent illness during international travel. This includes pre-travel consultation, vaccination, preventive medication and health education, distinguishing it from medical tourism, which involves travelling abroad to seek medical treatment.

It marked the culmination of over 10 memorable days of cultural exchange, friendship and competition among delegates from around the world. Founded by Miss Chinese World president Tan Sri Danny Ooi, the pageant serves as an international platform dedicated to promoting Chinese culture, values and traditions while fostering peace, goodwill and tourism. Guided by the theme “One Heritage, One World, One Crown”, the finalists demonstrated not only beauty and elegance, but also a strong appreciation for their cultural roots throughout their journey in Malaysia. During their stay, they had an immersive experience of Malaysia’s rich heritage, vibrant urban lifestyle Photogenic pomelo monument gets makeover IPOH: Mention Tambun and the giant succulent pamelo, known as limau bali in Malay, comes to mind. Visitors and local residents alike are now able to witness a new look on the famous landmark that features a sculpture of a giant pamelo, following a project to spruce up the site with a fresh coat of paint. Many farms in Tambun, a suburb of Ipoh, grow the juicy, sweet fruit. Anyone travelling through Jalan Ampang, a prominent artery in the town, is greeted by a lush panorama of pamelo trees on both sides. Residents recently took part in renovating the landmark to preserve it as an attractive and iconic monument. Some 35 people were involved. They included Tambun Fruit and Pamelo Growers Association chairman Law Voon Hing, Ipoh City Council chief whip Datuk Mazlan Abd Rahman, Tambun Umno branch members, volunteers and residents. “The spirit of gotong-royong shown here also demonstrated the local community’s concern for cleanliness and beautification. “It is a joint responsibility of everyone to preserve the identity of pomelos and it is not just the task of growers and producers,” Mazlan said. “The fruit is not only a tourism product but also a heritage symbol for the community.” – by P. CHANDRA SAGARAN Mazlan poses with Law as workers put the final touches on the landmark.

health experts. They discussed the evolving role of travel medicine in protecting travellers and strengthening Malaysia’s health preparedness. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, who officiated at the event, highlighted the need for coordinated action across healthcare sectors as international travel continues to

Council, Malaysian Pharmacists Society, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents and the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia. Themed “Connecting Stakeholders for Healthy International Travel”, the seminar brought together healthcare professionals, policymakers, travel industry representatives and public

Studies indicate that only 40.5% of Malaysians seek medical advice before travelling. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Miss Chinese World finalists enjoy Malaysian hospitality KUALA LUMPUR: The Miss Chinese World 2026 Grand Final Coronation Night concluded at the Manhattan Ballroom of Berjaya Times Square Hotel here recently.

The contestants had an immersive experience of Malaysia’s heritage, urban lifestyle and multicultural society. – PIC COURTESY OF BERJAYA TIMES SQUARE HOTEL

and its multicultural society. They visited heritage landmarks that included the Chan She Shu Yuen Clan Ancestral Hall and explored some of Kuala Lumpur’s most iconic attractions, including Merdeka Square and the Petronas Twin Towers. The visits enabled them to promote Malaysia’s cultural heritage and tourism attractions to audiences worldwide while celebrating the enduring traditions of Chinese culture. The finalists also participated in official appearances, culinary showcases, fashion presentations, talent performances and brand engagements. The delegates gained exposure to a diverse range of Malaysian brands and industries. During a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme at Grace Home Klang, they spent meaningful time interacting with residents through games,

OE EduGroup. The Platinum sponsors included Berjaya Times Square Hotel, which was the official hotel and grand final venue, Dragon Ginseng Bio-Tech and Thousands of Years Media.

and Vivian Lea. The event was hosted by Tiong Li San together with renowned hosts from China, Max and William Wang. The Miss Chinese World 2026 Grand Final was presented by

performances and community activities. The Grand Final was further enhanced by special performances from guest artistes Fatimah Noryyah, Martin Looi, METEOR