Learning Across Borders: My One-Month Clinical Elective in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

In front of Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

As a third-year medical student from Universitas Airlangga, I had the opportunity to spend one month in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as part of the Elective Posting Program 2025 hosted by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). From July 7 to August 1, 2025, I rotated through two departments: Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Emergency Medicine at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM), UKM’s primary teaching hospital. Throughout the month, I was immersed in various clinical activities that broadened my medical knowledge, improved my practical skills, and taught me invaluable lessons about professionalism, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication.

The program was designed to enhance the clinical understanding and hands-on experience of international medical students. Activities included history taking, physical examinations, case presentations, attending conferences, and observing medical procedures and surgeries. In addition to clinical training, the program emphasized communication skills, adaptability in unfamiliar settings, and exposure to the Malaysian healthcare system. Despite early challenges, particularly with understanding the local language and accents (Malay and Mandarin), I learned to adapt through gradual exposure, the help of translators, and kind explanations from supervisors and healthcare staff.

For the first two weeks, I was placed in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology under the guidance of Dr. Esther and Dr. Ainaa. Every morning began with ward rounds, where I observed how inpatient cases were discussed and managed. I later joined outpatient clinics, antenatal check-ups, and labour room observations, gradually learning how to conduct obstetric and gynaecological history taking and examinations. I also had the chance to observe vaginal deliveries and caesarean sections, including my first exposure to a sub-specialty clinic in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology (PAG) at UKM’s Women and Children’s Hospital. PAG introduced me to a sensitive and often overlooked field of gynaecology, focusing on conditions in young patients that require both clinical precision and emotional sensitivity. At the end of the rotation, I presented a case to my supervisor and received valuable feedback, which boosted my confidence and honed my clinical reasoning.

The second half of my elective was spent in the Department of Emergency Medicine under the supervision of Dr. Evelyn. I rotated through three triage zones in the emergency room: green, yellow, and red. Each represents varying degrees of case severity. I observed everything from mild complaints to life-threatening conditions, and participated in outpatient clinics run by the department. Through these rotations, I learned the structure of triage, rapid assessment, and the importance of maintaining clear and concise communication in high-pressure situations. In the final week, I explored the pre-hospital division and was introduced to ambulance workflows, referral systems, and the coordination of emergency response teams. This experience highlighted the urgency, teamwork, and empathy that define emergency care.

Outside of clinical work, I also had the chance to interact with Malaysian healthcare professionals and international students, exchange perspectives, and learn about different healthcare approaches. Despite the language and cultural differences, I found the hospital to be a welcoming and inclusive learning environment. I became more aware of the nuances in communication, patient-centered care, and the subtle differences between Malaysian and Indonesian healthcare systems.

Participating in this elective program has been one of the most transformative experiences in my medical education so far. It marked my transition from pre-clinical studies to real-world clinical practice. I experienced the pace of hospital life: mornings in the labour room, hours in the operating theatre, and intense moments in the emergency department. I learned from inspiring supervisors, worked alongside dedicated medical staff, and grew more confident in my clinical abilities. Above all, I developed a deeper appreciation for international collaboration in healthcare and the importance of staying open-minded, adaptable, and compassionate.

This elective in Malaysia was not just an academic experience, it was a journey of growth, reflection, and global understanding. I am grateful for the chance to represent Universitas Airlangga and look forward to contributing to cross-border medical collaboration in the future.