Strengthening Health Information Systems in Sabah: Lessons from the MOH ANMS

Faerozh Madli; Lai Che Ching; Syahruddin Ag Ahmad; Jamsari Hashim; Yasmin Ooi Beng Huoi; Wong Vui Yin; Jaswinder Kler; Haslinda Hasan; Khairunisah Kamsin; Charlie Albert Lasuin

Authors

Faerozh Madli Faculty of Business, Economics and Accountancy, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Lai Che Ching UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Syahruddin Ag Ahmad UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Jamsari Hashim UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Yasmin Ooi Beng Huoi UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Wong Vui Yin UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Jaswinder Kler UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Haslinda Hasan UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Khairunisah Kamsin Faculty of Business, Economics and Accountancy, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
Charlie Albert Lasuin UMS-Unicef C4D Research Unit head, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia

Keywords:

Health information systems, Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat, youth health engagement

Abstract

Health information systems are essential for delivering health education and promoting healthy lifestyles among youth in geographically diverse regions like Sabah, Malaysia. The Ministry of Health (MOH) implemented the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat (ANMS) to improve health communication and disease prevention. However, the effectiveness of these digital health communication systems in reaching university students remains underexplored. This study evaluates the awareness, brand perception, and platform preferences regarding the MOH ANMS campaign among youth in Sabah. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was administered to 34 undergraduate students at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive frequency analysis to assess awareness levels, brand perception, and media channel preferences. The results indicate moderate awareness of the ANMS campaign among respondents. Despite varying exposure levels, students consistently reported positive perceptions of the ANMS brand identity, agreeing that the logo and messaging effectively convey sincerity, confidence, and national relevance. Respondents also rated the MOH as a highly trustworthy and credible source of health information. Notably, the data reveal a strong preference for digital channels, with a clear majority identifying social media as the most useful and effective platform for accessing ANMS-related content, while traditional media platforms were viewed as less sufficient for youth engagement. The study concludes that strengthening health information systems in Sabah requires a strategic shift toward digital-first communication. The MOH should prioritize social media optimization and targeted online campaigns to improve youth awareness and sustain engagement. Aligning national health initiatives with the digital consumption habits of university students will enhance information accessibility and support broader public health objectives.