On 17 May 2026, the Asian Medical Students’ Association of Universiti Putra Malaysia (AMSA-UPM) successfully organised Diabetes Day 2026 at the Pusat Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (PKKSSAAS), UPM. Co-organised with BE International and the Muslim Medical Team (MMT), and supported by more than 10 industry partners, the event attracted an impressive 1,458 participants comprising students, university staff, and members of the public.

Carrying the theme “Shaping Tomorrow’s Health Today,” the programme aimed to raise awareness of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases through health education, physical activity, and early detection initiatives. Building on the success of the previous year, the 2026 edition expanded its outreach and strengthened its impact on community health promotion.

The day began with an energetic aerobic session, followed by a fun run featuring 3 km, 5 km, and 7 km categories suitable for participants of all ages. These activities highlighted the importance of regular exercise as a key strategy in preventing and managing diabetes. A special highlight was the participation of 20 children from the Incredible Warrior Group, whose enthusiasm brought added meaning to the event. Their involvement fostered stronger connections among families, caregivers, and the wider community while promoting inclusive health awareness.

A major attraction was the comprehensive free health screening programme. Participants received blood glucose testing, blood pressure measurements, body mass index assessments, and waist circumference evaluations. Additional specialised services included diabetic foot and nail examinations, eye screenings for glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, ear examinations, and abdominal ultrasound assessments. These screenings focused on the early detection of diabetes and its complications, enabling participants to better understand their health status.

The screening services were made possible through collaborations with Pronails Footcare, International Medical University (IMU), Wardah Malaysia, Sunway Medical Centre, Roche Malaysia, and the Radiology and Nursing Departments of Hospital Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah (HSAAS). Participants with abnormal findings received immediate counselling and referrals for further medical evaluation, reinforcing the importance of early intervention.

Health education was another key component of the programme. Professor Ching Siew Mooi delivered an insightful talk on reducing salt intake to control blood pressure in conjunction with World Hypertension Day, while Dr. Suffian Sani shared practical approaches to managing diabetes and obesity. Their presentations provided attendees with evidence-based strategies for maintaining long-term health and preventing chronic diseases.

The health exhibition featured interactive booths covering healthy eating, diabetes awareness, cancer education, rare genetic diseases, and emerging diabetes technologies such as glucose monitoring systems and insulin pumps. A dedicated children’s zone offered face painting, sand colouring, and educational games, ensuring that health learning was engaging for younger participants while parents attended screenings and talks.

To further promote healthy living, 12 food and beverage vendors offered nutritious options, demonstrating that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and accessible.

Overall, AMSA-UPM Diabetes Day 2026 successfully united students, healthcare professionals, hospitals, corporate partners, and the community in a shared mission to promote healthier lifestyles. Through education, screening, and community engagement, the event demonstrated the power of collaboration in building a healthier future for all.

By:
Professor Cheah Pike See
Project Leader (Diabetes Day 2026)
Advisor  (AMSA-UPM)
Head (Dept. of Human Anatomy, FMHS, UPM)

Date of Input: 09/06/2026 | Updated: 09/06/2026 | nadia_rahman