“Healthcare is not a luxury— it is a basic human right.”

With this powerful reminder, final year Bachelor of Nursing student at IMU University, Lee Jing Yang (NU121), received the 2025 IMU AFLAME Student Award, standing as a beacon of dedication, compassion, and advocacy for community health.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Jing Yang shared his journey — one deeply rooted in service, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to empowering underserved communities. “Looking back,” he reflected, “I never imagined that my passion for nursing and community health would lead me here.”

From his early volunteer work with the Malaysian Red Crescent (MRC) to his academic journey at IMU, Jing Yang has consistently championed healthcare access for marginalised groups such as the Orang Asli, refugees, and migrant communities. His work has not only uplifted lives but also aligned with global humanitarian goals, including the Red Cross Red Crescent’s Strategy 2030, which seeks to strengthen community-based health systems and ensure equitable access to care.

“The recognition is not just personal; it symbolises the collective efforts of those who have supported and believed in the cause,” he said. “It motivates me to further my commitment to those in need. Love and compassion are the driving forces behind all of this.”

In line with the ethos of the award, Jing Yang chose to direct the financial contribution associated with the AFLAME Award to the Malaysian Red Crescent KL Timur Branch, a decision made to ease the burden on the national headquarters and ensure greater impact at the grassroots level. This gesture exemplifies the seven fundamental principles of the Red Cross — humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality — values he holds dear.

Jing Yang also expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the MRC National Health team, naming Dr Pam, Dr Albert Ling, Dr Chai, Ms Juosie, and Mr Carrot Ho for their instrumental roles in guiding and believing in him throughout his journey.

As Jing Yang looks ahead, he remains grounded in his mission: to continue being a catalyst for change in the lives of others. “I look forward to continuing this journey, making a positive impact wherever I can.”

The IMU community congratulates Lee Jing Yang on this well-deserved recognition and applauds his efforts in advancing community health through empathy, education, and action.