The Health Ministries Department of the Malaysia Union Mission, in partnership with the Adventist University of the Philippines, recently conducted a Health Promoters’ Training program, designed to equip individuals for medical missionary work. With the motto, “Serving others, expecting nothing in return (except to see them in heaven),” the program highlighted selfless service and Christ-centred care as the foundation for community health outreach.
A total of 13 participants from across Malaysia—four from Sabah, one from the Peninsular Malaysia Mission (PEM), one from the Borneo Adventist Region (BAR), and seven from Sarawak—completed the 200-hour training program. The goal of the initiative was to bring healing to the people in the community by preparing individuals to serve not only as caregivers but also as spiritual ambassadors.
The training comprised four key courses, focusing on both the practical and spiritual dimensions of health ministry. One course, The Health and Gospel Ministry, introduced participants to the Seventh-day Adventist theology of health, the connection between the health message and the gospel, and how to effectively share Bible truths through Bible studies. Another course, Care for the Sick, covered a wide range of health topics, including common illnesses and diseases, signs and symptoms, preventive care, first aid, natural remedies, and therapeutic communication.
Through a combination of reading materials, lectures, reflective journaling, assessments, and the presentation of a public health lecture, participants developed hands-on skills and a deeper understanding of how to integrate health principles into evangelism. By the end of the training, attendees were able to demonstrate proficiency in natural remedies, promote lifestyle changes through nutrition and exercise, and utilize health tools effectively in their ministry. Most importantly, they embraced the model of Jesus—serving others with compassion and bringing healing not only to the body but to the heart and soul.
Twelve participants completed the program, receiving a certificate from the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) and Malaysia Union Mission, and were celebrated in a Graduation & Sending Out Ceremony at Kuching English Church, Sarawak, on 26 March 2025. Presenting the certificate and awards were Dr. Lalaine Alfanoso, SSD Health Director, Dr. Jane Yap, MAUM Health Director, and Guest Speaker Dr. Rico Javien, Professor of Theology, College of Medicine and Graduate Studies, Adventist University of the Philippines, and Pr. Ham Diyon, Sarawak Mission Health Director.
As more learn about the opportunities they have as missionaries, Mrs. Nicolyn Wellin, a missionary volunteer from Sabah shared how the six-week program helped her understand what Jesus did for the sick and what people truly need today. She said, “I believe I must be healthy first before I can help others achieve good health.”
This training marks a significant step in the church’s commitment to holistic mission work in Malaysia. As these newly equipped health promoters return to their communities, they carry with them a powerful message of hope, healing, and selfless service—touching lives not just for today, but for eternity.
By Hazel Wanda Ginajil-Gara, MAUM Communication Department
7, April 2025, Monday.