Asia Future Research Institute
Proposals for knowledge of a sustainable future,
taking into account Asia's history and contemporary issues
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We have been extending our efforts as a lateral expansion of the Japan-China Medical Cooperation Plan, which originated from the 2007 Abe-Wen Jiabao meeting, by implementing cancer education for elementary school students. This initiative has been carried out in elementary schools in Nanjing and Harbin as a part of next-generation education. Currently, we are also active in Toyama Prefecture in Japan and Malacca in Malaysia.
Cancer education not only alters the awareness and knowledge of parents regarding cancer screening but also provides children with foundational experiences in healthcare. Furthermore, by engaging children in cancer education and community activities, we are contributing to shaping the future of Asia.
Below is a report on our ongoing activities in Malaysian elementary schools.
Summary of Primary School Visits (Malacca State, Malaysia)
Purpose of the Visit:
Understanding the current state of health and cancer education in elementary schools.
Investigating the awareness and educational handling of cancer.
Surveying dietary habits (school lunches, family eating habits).
Visit Date : December 4, 2023
School Name : SJKC Chung Kuo
School Overview:
Public primary school (Chinese heritage).
200 students.
Notes:
Teachers attending the meeting did not have personal experiences with cancer but showed a positive attitude towards cancer screening initiatives.
Positive response to the proposal for health education, but concerns about the workload for lesson preparation were raised. ※Protocols must be followed for any school project (government, local authority permissions, parent notifications, etc.), which takes time, hence the need to start early.
Cervical cancer vaccination initiatives are communicated through schools to parents. Vaccinations are available at school (varies by school).
Light meal break around 10 AM (unlike Japan, having breakfast at home is not as common in Malaysia; a light meal around 10 AM is the norm).
Food is either purchased in the cafeteria or brought from home. Choices vary (noodles, fried rice, etc.). No visible hand washing or table sanitization before eating.
Visit Date: December 4, 2023 School
Name: SK Methodist Primary Girls School
School Overview:
Malay religious school (Protestant), with over 100 years of history (centennial in 2028).
Over 200 students, including indigenous (Orang Asli) students. ※Some students with dedicated mentoring staff.
70% from the B40 economic group, with some from the lower strata of B40; the rest are M40. Very few from the T (Top) group.
Notes:
Teachers had personal experiences with breast and prostate cancer, including a retired teacher who passed away due to cancer. There was a high awareness of cancer screening (active promotion of regular check-ups).
Very positive towards health education for children. Lessons are primarily in Malay, with some English depending on the subject.
School meals are balanced and prepared on-site, including fruits. Affordable pricing (R1~R3), with government subsidies for underprivileged children (coupon system to maintain discretion).
Some students bring lunch from home for various reasons (religious, family circumstances, health issues like obesity).
Visit Date: December 5, 2023
School Name: SJKT Kubul Tamil
School Overview:
Indian school, established in 1942.
Tamil as the main language, English and Malay as secondary.
365 students in total, with 185 in the B40 category. ※Includes special education classes and a preschool.
Notes:
A teacher with Stage 1 cancer experience, already treated. A relative of another teacher passed away due to late-stage cancer.
Fear of cancer exists, but there's an understanding of the importance of comprehending the disease. → Keen to teach basic knowledge to children.
Strong resonance with the idea that students should share what they learn at school with their families at home.
Annual education includes cancer-related topics but lacks adequate materials. Very positive about incorporating it into the curriculum with appropriate materials.
Monthly community volunteer activities led by teachers. → Involving children in awareness and volunteer activities is feasible.
Strong support for disseminating cancer screening activities through children. Interested in reflecting on health issues learned at school within the family context.
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