NEWS Malaysia

On May 13, 2025, experts from Taiwan’s National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) and Malaysia’s Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) came together in a joint webinar to share their research on important health issues. The online event was held on Cisco Webex and streamed on Facebook Live. The webinar was moderated by Dr. Nurzalinda Zalbahar @ Zabaha from UPM and featured discussions on mental health, vaccination, childhood nutrition, and food labeling.

Here are the main highlights from the six featured speakers:

1. Understanding ADHD and Internet Use

Prof. Chung-Ying Lin (NCKU) explained how people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often struggle with poor quality of life and mental stress, especially when they use the internet too much. Prof. Lin said it’s important to offer early mental health support and raise awareness about ADHD among the public.

2. Vaccination Among Sexual Minorities

Prof. Carol Strong (NCKU) shared her findings on how Taiwan’s sexual minorities use the Mpox vaccine. She noted that health campaigns should be more inclusive and reach vulnerable groups who might be afraid of being judged when getting vaccinated.

3. Exercise Addiction in Asia

Prof. Meng-Che Tsai (NCKU) talked about how some people in Taiwan, Malaysia, and India become addicted to exercise. His study found that many are motivated by body image. He said more research is needed to raise awareness and provide support for those who might be exercising too much for the wrong reasons.

4. Child Development in Poor Urban Areas

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gan Wan Ying (UPM) highlighted delays in child development among children from low-income urban families. Poor nutrition, lack of playtime, and low education levels among parents were common issues. She called for more parent education programs and government support for urban poor families.

5. Vitamin D to Fight Anemia

Dr. Salma Faeza Ahmad Fuzi (UPM) presented findings from a study where children were given a Vitamin D-fortified drink. The results showed improved Vitamin D levels, better bone health, and stronger immune responses. She recommended that schools and health agencies consider such fortified drinks to help fight anemia among children.

6. Food Labels Help People Make Better Choices

Dr. Siti Rainah Shafie (UPM) emphasized how clear food labels and calorie tags on menus can help Malaysians eat healthier. Her research showed that most people want this information, but many still don’t understand how to use it. She called for stronger food labeling policies and more public education .

What’s Next?

The speakers agreed that more awareness, community programs, and policy changes are needed to improve public health. They also encouraged continued cooperation between NCKU and UPM in future research and outreach projects. The organizers hope the webinar will lead to more joint efforts to tackle health issues across Asia.

The brief event information is as follows:

• Organizer             : NCKU Overseas Hub in Malaysia
• Collaborator : NCKU (Institute of Allied Health Sciences) and Universiti Putra Malaysia (Dept. of Nutrition)
• Attendees : Academicians, researchers, laboratory staff, and postgraduate students.