Community health development in Malaysia has traditionally taken a paternalistic approach. However, this approach has posed problems for ethnic minority communities in rural areas. Rural populations in the state of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo, are especially vulnerable because of their poverty, and, their cultural, language, political and geographical barriers in getting access to the government healthcare system. Participatory action research was initiated in a community health development programme in an isolated ethnic minority longhouse community. The use of participatory action research aims at allowing the community to share decision making with the local health department and university researchers. The approach was suitable for encouraging joint efforts in identifying and finding solutions to the health problems and needs of the community, enabling the community to recognize its ability to address its own needs and concerns. Through praxis, an environmental health project was formed as part of a health promotion programme. Successful utilization of Paulo Freire's philosophy of "education for critical consciousness" in the context of health development and concepts of empowerment will be discussed. The processes used and experiences gained will also be shared.
Learning Objectives: Discuss the use of participatory action research among marginalised ethnic minority communities. Identify concepts central to community empowerment, action research and Freirian approaches towards community organising and adult learning
Keywords: Community Participation, Health Promotion
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.