EVENTS
Upcoming Event
The Malaysian Harm Reduction Conference
The Malaysian Harm Reduction Conference (MHRC) serves as a platform for knowledge enrichment, thought provoking dialogue and to pave the way for desirable and healthy outcomes for the greater wellbeing of the community
Featuring prominent local and international speakers, MSHR brings together diverse perspectives to raise awareness about scientific advancements in harm reduction. The forum also highlighted applicable approaches that can be built into public health policies and practices with the endgame of minimising the adverse consequences of negative human behaviour.
2023 Malaysian Harm Reduction Conference
- August 26, 2023
The 2023 MHRC is a collaborative effort between MSHR and UNESCO which brought together a distinguished assembly of global and local experts dedicated to navigating the dynamic landscape of harm reduction. The Forum covered the pressing need for well-balanced policies, spanning crucial domains like tobacco, road safety, and non-communicable diseases. Of particular interest was the crucial role of tailored policies to facilitate effective management, coupled with the advancing role of technology and active involvement of communities through education. Over 250 physical and online attendees took part in expertly moderated panel discussions, fostering meaningful exchanges and insights.
2021 Inaugural Malaysian Harm Reduction Conference
- October 16, 2021
The 2021 inaugural MHRC highlighted harm reduction approaches that are applicable and relevant during the pandemic period. It consisted of four sessions covering : Diet and Nutrition, Substance Addiction, Tobacco Harm Reduction, and Occupational Safety and Health. Each session was moderated by an MSHR expert panel member with three distinguished speakers contributing insights and expertise. The 2021 MHRC welcomed more than 200 participants from local universities, researchers, academia, health sector representatives, governmental agencies, occupational health and safety practitioners, corporate stakeholders, non-government organisations (NGOs) and International affiliates.
Harm Reduction Awareness Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programs
In February 2021, MSHR hosted several governmental health agencies like The National Cancer Institute and the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) among others, in its Harm Reduction Awareness CPD Program. The program enables participants to enhance their professional knowledge and proficiency on harm reduction-focused strategies and practical applications. Delivered in four webinars sessions, the CPD program was successfully conducted with over 500 participants.
Free Health Awareness Initiatives & Collaborative Webinars
Our free health awareness initiatives and collaborative webinars promote holistic understanding of health, hygiene, and disease prevention. We cover topics such as mental health, ergonomics, road safety, childhood obesity and myopia, smoking addiction management and Malaysian adolescent health concerns. In February 2021, MSHR hosted several governmental health agencies like The National Cancer Institute and the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) among others, in its Harm Reduction Awareness CPD Program. The program enables participants to enhance their professional knowledge and proficiency on harm reduction-focused strategies and practical applications. Delivered in four webinars sessions, the CPD program was successfully conducted with over 500 participants.
- November 8, 2023
Collaborative Webinar: Harm Reduction Awareness
Co-organised alongside international harm reduction societies CAPHRA-Asia Pacific, ATHRA-Australia, HARAP-Philippine and PANTHR-Pakistan, the webinar showcased a rich discussion featuring two speakers and five expert panellists, along with participant engagement. Dr. Karl Erik Lund highlighted Sweden’s pioneering journey to a smoke-free society, emphasising the success of snus products in reducing tobacco-related harms and healthcare burdens. Prof. Gerhard Scherer discussed the importance of biomarkers in driving behaviour change and the need for further research to evaluate risk-reduced products. The discussion underscored the significance of THR as a supplementary strategy in addressing smoking and health issues, advocating for scientifically sound evaluation and effective communication of data to policymakers and the World Health Organization.
- April 27, 2023
Collaborative Webinar: Harm Reduction Awareness
An interdisciplinary expert-led webinar on Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) organised in collaboration with international harm reduction societies; CAPHRA-Asia Pacific, ATHRA-Australia, HARAP-Philippine and PANTHR-Pakistan. The webinar brought together a distinguished panel of experts from four countries, sharing knowledge and expertise on THR, from the perspective of public health, policy, and advocacy. The conversation zeroed in on the concept of THR, the framework of evidence that supports it as a strategy for smoking cessation, and the challenges and opportunities in implementing THR strategies in the region.
Malaysian Adolescent Current Health Concerns
- October 10, 2022
Free Webinar: Health Awareness
Moderated by MSHR’s deputy secretary, Ms Geeta Appannah, the webinar featured 3 adolescent health specialists who highlighted current prevalent health issues affecting Malaysian teens such as mental health problems, suicide, drug addiction and obesity. The webinar also stressed the importance of proper nutrition, ways to identify and manage issues and perspectives, as well as the role of the community in mental health awareness among adolescents.
This webinar attracted 150 participants.
Managing Smoking Addiction In Malaysia
- August 20, 2022
Free Webinar: Harm Reduction Awareness
The webinar, chaired by Prof. Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, brought together esteemed speakers Prof. Dr. Paul Newhouse, Dr. Alex Wodak AM, and Dr. Ariffin Fii, to delve into various aspects of smoking addiction treatment. Prof. Newhouse shared insights into the modalities for treating smoking addiction and the use of nicotine in medicine, drawing from his extensive research in psychiatry and pharmacology. Dr. Wodak, a prominent advocate of drug reform, shed light on effective policies and strategies adopted by other countries, led by harm reduction approaches. Dr. Ariffin Fii, with over 30 years of experience in addiction treatment, addressed common misconceptions surrounding harm reduction and smoking addiction, providing valuable local perspectives. Participants had a comprehensive discussion on combating smoking addiction, incorporating global perspectives and local expertise to inform effective strategies for tackling this public health challenge.
This webinar attracted 72 participants.
Drug Trends and Laws In Malaysia: Reevaluating Current Approach
- March 12, 2022
Free Webinar: Health Awareness
Featuring prominent national substance addiction experts, MSHR hosted an engaging, well researched discussion on the National Drug Policies, drawbacks and consequences of our current outdated approach to substance addiction management, and the sensible way forward for our country. Based on participant feedback received, 94% agree that an urgent reform of our national drug policies is needed, 41% agree that Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) strategies and products have the potential to reduce smoking prevalence and morbidity in Malaysia while only 37% participants agree that decriminalisation of ketum and cannabis is a timely move.
This webinar attracted 86 participants.
Pandemic Woes Among Children
- February 26, 2022
Free Webinar: Health Awareness
A panel of esteemed speakers engaged in a thorough discussion on childhood obesity, childhood Myopia and cyberbullying that has become prevalent due to the lack of physical activity, increased screen time and exposure to the internet among children during the pandemic era. The session also covered practical advice for modifying healthy lifestyle behaviours in children and how parents can protect their child’s safety online.
This webinar attracted 462 participants.
Update On Malaysian Ergonomics Guidelines
- February 19, 2022
Free Webinar: Health Awareness
Two highly reputable ergonomics specialists join in a timely discussion on Workplace Ergonomics particularly on handling display screen equipment and the latest ergonomics guidelines established by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH).
This webinar attracted 120 participants.
Mental Health Awareness – A Casual Harm Reduction Approach
- February 20, 2021
Free Webinar: Health Awareness
A casual discussion was held on the taboos surrounding mental health and recent scientific advancements in managing stress, aiming to address the pressing mental health issues faced by our nation.
This webinar attracted 90 participants.
MSHR Harm Reduction Roadshows
We organise Harm Reduction Roadshows in collaboration with partners like Air Asia and Raya Airways to foster dialogue and action around minimising harm associated with various workplace environments and human behaviours.
The goal is to drive education and engagement through our roadshows and showcase best practices in optimising workspaces, processes, and equipment to mitigate ergonomic risks to enhance overall worker health and performance.
We believe in cultivating a workplace culture centered on health, safety, and well-being, and we welcome partners to join us in driving organisational success and sustainability by promoting health and well-being for all.
Raya Airways Safety Day
- December 23, 2022
MSHR was invited by Raya Airways to set up a booth at their Safety Day to shed light on harm reduction principles. Dr. Shridev Nair, program coordinator from MSHR, delivered a compelling presentation on the significance of ergonomics and the impact they have on employee health and well-being. The event drew considerable attention, with attendees engaging in discussions and ergonomic demonstrations. Through this collaboration, Raya Airways underscored its commitment to promoting safety, health, and employee welfare within its organisation.
AirAsia Safety Day at KK Airport, Sabah
- December 6, 2019
MSHR was invited to introduce the concept of harm reduction to AirAsia employees at the AirAsia Safety Day event held at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Sabah. The MSHR booth attracted over 200 visitors.Through interactive displays, informative materials, and engaging discussions, attendees gained valuable insights into promoting a culture of safety, well-being, and ways to foster informed decision-making within the AirAsia community, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in enhancing employee health and performance.