Izumo, Japan – The Faculty of Medicine at the Indonesian Muslim University (FK UMI) in Makassar conducted an International Community Service Program in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Japan, on Sunday, October 25, 2026. This event is part of FK UMI’s efforts to expand its community service contributions at the international level while raising awareness about the importance of mental health for pregnant women and the healthcare system.
The event was led directly by the Dean of FK UMI, Dr. dr. Nasrudin A.M., Sp.OG(K), M.Sc., MARS, FISQua, along with several faculty members and students from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialization Program and the Medical Professional Program at FK UMI.
The UMI Faculty of Medicine delegation also included Dr. dr. Erlin Syahril, Sp.Rad(K); Dr. dr. Rachmat Faisal, M.Kes.; Dr. Rezky Putri Indarwati, M.Kes.; and Dr. Muhammad Alim Jaya, MARS, Ph.D., Sp.KJ. This event also involved Japanese residents and foreign nationals who are members of the Izumo Host Family, Indonesian students from the Indonesian Student Association (PPI) Shimane–Tottori, as well as members of the Indonesian community residing in the Shimane region.
Addressing the Mental Health of Pregnant Women through a Biopsychosocial Approach
One of the main agenda items of this event was a knowledge-sharing session on the mental health of pregnant women using a biopsychosocial approach. This approach emphasizes that a mother’s health during pregnancy is influenced not only by biological factors but also by psychological factors, social support, economic conditions, and the environment in which she experiences her pregnancy.
In this discussion, support from partners and family emerged as a key aspect. Good communication, care, and emotional support can help mothers cope with the various changes and challenges they face during pregnancy.
Additionally, financial circumstances, health insurance coverage, and access to quality healthcare services were also part of the discussion. These various factors can influence a mother’s sense of security and well-being during pregnancy.
This event also highlighted the importance of the roles played by medical personnel, healthcare facilities, and the primary healthcare system in the early identification of mental health issues among pregnant women. Integration between obstetric care, mental health services, family support, and the social environment is necessary to address the needs of expectant mothers more comprehensively.
Through these educational sessions and discussions, the public is expected to gain a better understanding that maintaining the mental health of expectant mothers is a shared responsibility involving healthcare professionals, families, the community, and the healthcare system.
Strengthening Collaboration and Cultural Exchange Between Indonesia and Japan
In addition to focusing on health issues, this International Community Service activity served as a space for interaction and cultural exchange between the UMI Faculty of Medicine delegation, the Japanese public, and the Indonesian community in the Shimane region.
The involvement of the Izumo Host Family, PPI Shimane–Tottori, and Indonesian citizens residing in Japan created opportunities to build social relationships, share experiences, and expand cross-national networks. These interactions also strengthened a spirit of togetherness and mutual understanding amid cultural diversity.
For the UMI Faculty of Medicine, this activity is a manifestation of the university’s three pillars, particularly community service, developed through a global perspective. International community service not only serves as a means of disseminating health information but also opens avenues for the exchange of knowledge and experiences regarding public health challenges within different social and cultural contexts.
It is hoped that the implementation of this program will strengthen the UMI Faculty of Medicine’s contribution to raising public awareness of maternal and family health while fostering sustainable international collaboration in the fields of medical education, health, research, and community service.
Guided by the spirit of “Caring for Mothers, Connecting Cultures, Building Bridges,” the UMI Faculty of Medicine continues to strive to deliver impactful community service, expand cross-national cooperation, and support improvements in public health through a comprehensive, community-centered approach.