IN A refreshing departure from the norm, Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC) unveiled a new facet of healthcare at its community health event.
Building connections among community members, healthcare professionals and children of all ages, SunMed Carnival is testament that a hospital can be more than just a place for treatment; it can also be a fun learning and knowledge-sharing hub.
“We strongly advocate that healthcare extends far beyond treating illnesses,” said SMC chief executive officer Dr Seow Vei Ken, at Sunway City.
By blending medical knowledge with excitement, he said SunMed Carnival demonstrated the hospital’s commitment to effect prevention, education and empowerment towards a healthy lifestyle and well-being.
“It warms our hearts to see the enthusiastic involvement of our community and young ones.”
Attended by over 1,900 people, the carnival featured family-friendly educational activities tailored for children, introducing them to the world of healthcare.
It was also an occasion to showcase the new Tower D, SMC’s one-stop centre designed to cater to the healthcare needs of infants, children and adolescents.
The tower houses Children’s Emergency – the first emergency department in a private hospital in Malaysia exclusively dedicated to children under 12 years old, underscoring the hospital’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare for the family.
One of the standout attractions at the carnival was the ambulance tour, which left children wide-eyed with wonder as they rode on the lifesaving vehicle.
They also learned about the role ambulances and paramedics play in patient care.
Other attractions included arts and crafts workshops and colouring contest.
There were also educational games such as a first aid kit quest to help children acquire skills to respond to common injuries and a body-organ match where children discovered the incredible systems of the human body.
Attendees also had access to booths that offered health and eye screenings, speech and hearing tests, spine assessments and dietitian advice on healthy eating.
“We had a great time getting our health screenings, eye checks, and speech and hearing tests.
“My daughter was especially excited to learn CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) at the ambulance tour,” said Wong Ley Peng, 38, who came with his family from Subang Jaya.
Elizabeth Jonathan, 39, who attended the event with her three daughters said the girls had a blast at the game stations.
“One of them especially enjoyed the colouring contest, and my youngest was the first to complete every station compared to her two elder sisters,” she added.
Through this carnival, SMC aimed to foster community and empowerment to inspire everyone to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Beyond the festive spirit, the carnival showcased the power of healthcare education when combined with the joy of learning and the spirit of community, leading the way for hospitals as hubs of community wellness and education.