As final-year IMU Nutrition students, our clinical placement at Klinik Kesihatan was more than a step toward graduation—it was a journey of growth, empathy, and purpose. Immersed in real-world settings, we gained firsthand insight into how nutritionists shape community nutrition outcomes, especially in school-based nutrition programmes as well as maternal and child health (MCH) clinics. The experience transformed classroom knowledge into meaningful action, showing us the true impact of nutrition in improving community wellbeing.
At MCH clinics, we were actively involved in early interventions of children at risk of malnutrition, promotion optimal infant and young child feeding practices, and supporting pregnant mothers through individualised nutrition care and education.
One of the most meaningful experiences was leading the Sesi Ceramah Penyusuan Susu Ibu (Breastfeeding Talk) where we guided new mothers on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, timely complementary feeding, and strategies to overcome common breastfeeding challenges. Beyond group education, we provided individual consultations to parents of underweight children, pregnant women with anaemia and tailoring practical recommendations to meet the nutritional needs of the individuals.
Our work extended beyond clinic walls through home visits to families with malnourished children.
These experiences offered valuable insights into how socioeconomic factors shape food choices and the food environment.
Through activities such as delivering food baskets, and understanding each family’s home and living condition, we witnessed firsthand the complex realities that influence nutrition and health.
These visits reminded us that effective community nutrition goes beyond sharing knowledge, it requires advocacy, empathy, and building trust within the community.
Guided by dedicated preceptors, we learned the essence of professionalism, adaptability, the balance between technical skills and human connection. Their mentorship helped to bridge the gap between classroom theory to real-world community nutrition practice.
Through this practicum placement, we became even more convinced that nutritionists are not just advocates for better diets; they are advocates for better futures.
We left Klinik Kesihatan not only with enhanced professional skills but also with stories that will stay with us: the mothers who placed their trust in our guidance, the children whose smiles reflected hope and the realisation that Nutritionists has the power to shape lives and communities to be better.
“This posting reminded me that as future nutritionists, we are not just advocating for better food—but for better futures.” — Sayli Viren Vartak
“Reflecting on the experience, I truly believe the long daily commute was worth it. The lessons learnt and the connections made have shaped my perspective as a future nutritionist.” — Shue Wei
Contributed by Liew Shue Wei, Sayli Viren Vartak, and Claire Ng Yann Wei.
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