Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak (UniKL RCMP) reinforced the importance of physical fitness and mental well-being in healthcare education through its Fit to Care: Stronger Body, Better Care programme, held on 15 October 2026.
The initiative brought together 112 participants, including nursing students and academicians, to promote healthier lifestyles and highlight the importance of personal wellness in preparing future healthcare professionals for the demands of clinical practice.
Organised by Bachelor of Nursing Semester 7 and Post Diploma Semester 3 students, the programme emphasised that maintaining personal health is an essential part of delivering safe, effective and compassionate patient care.
Guided by programme advisors Ms. Rose Ayu Md Rabi and Dr. Kogila Supramanian, the initiative encouraged nursing students to adopt sustainable fitness habits that support their physical and mental well-being throughout their academic journey and professional careers.
The programme featured Mr. Sam Pakiaraj, a strength and conditioning coach and founder of Athletic Performance Centre, who shared practical insights from his experience coaching state and professional football teams.
Through fitness awareness activities and practical demonstrations, participants explored simple exercises, stretching techniques, proper posture and body mechanics relevant to everyday activities and nursing practice.
These activities highlighted the importance of physical readiness in healthcare professions, particularly for nurses whose responsibilities often involve prolonged standing, patient handling and other physically demanding clinical tasks.
Beyond promoting healthier lifestyles, the programme provided student organisers with opportunities to strengthen their leadership, teamwork and event management skills through hands-on planning and coordination.
The experience complemented UniKL RCMP’s approach to holistic nursing education, which integrates academic learning, practical competencies and personal development to prepare students for the evolving needs of the healthcare sector.
The initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by encouraging healthy lifestyles and preventive health practices, and SDG 4: Quality Education, through experiential learning and the development of essential professional competencies.
