Why Your Wellness Journey Starts with a Screening

You know how we often say, “Ala, I’m fine lah. I feel healthy!” when someone suggests a health check-up? Well, here’s a little truth bomb — feeling healthy doesn’t always mean you are healthy. Some of the most common illnesses, like diabetes or high blood pressure, can quietly develop for years before showing any signs. By the time symptoms appear, the condition may already be serious.

That’s why going for regular early health screening is so important. They help detect diseases early before they become serious. It’s just like sending your car for regular servicing — you’d rather fix a small problem early than deal with a breakdown later, right?

And for the Malay/Muslim community, this isn’t just about you. It’s about your ummah. When you take care of your health, you’re also protecting your family, your loved ones, and the people who depend on you. That’s the heart of Korang OK, an initiative by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) — to remind us that Jaga Kesihatan, Jaga Ummah isn’t just a slogan, it’s a way of life.

Think of your body like your passport — it needs to be valid, ready, and cared for before every journey. A simple health screening is like a pre-trip safety check for your body.

It helps detect potential health issues early, even before symptoms appear. And when you catch them early, you have more options, more control, and more peace of mind.

Imagine this:
You’re climbing the hills of Cappadocia or trekking through Jeju’s volcanic trails when you suddenly feel dizzy or weak. The culprit? Undetected high blood sugar or blood pressure.

That’s the kind of “plot twist” no one wants on holiday.

Early detection means early action — and that means being able to do the things you love longer and healthier.

Let’s be honest. Many of us have reasons — or rather, excuses — for skipping our health screening. Here are the common ones we often hear in our community, and how to overcome them:

1. “I’m scared of the results.”

Many avoid health screening because they fear getting bad news. But here’s the truth — not knowing doesn’t make the problem disappear. It only delays the chance to fix it.

When you screen early, you’re not inviting bad news; you’re taking control of your life. You’re saying, “I want to be around for my family, my anak-anak, my grandkids.” Go for health screening for peace of mind, not fear.

2. “It’s so troublesome to book!”

Not anymore! The Health Appointment System makes it easy to book a health screening at a Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) GP clinic near you. Just check which screenings you’re due for, choose your preferred clinic, and book instantly. That’s it. No long waiting lines, no confusion. Just convenience at your fingertips.

3. “I don’t know what to screen for.”

No worries — Healthier SG Screening is the national screening programme by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) that encourages Singaporean residents to go for regular health screening and follow-up.

Here’s a quick guide to the key health screening you should know about under Healthier SG Screening:

Cardiovascular Risk Screening

This test checks your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels — the big three indicators for heart disease and diabetes.
Who should go: Everyone aged 40 and above.
How often: Once every three years (or as advised by your doctor).

Breast Cancer Screening (for women)

A mammogram can detect lumps or abnormalities that can’t be felt yet.
Who should go: Women aged 50 to 69.
How often: Every two years.

Cervical Cancer Screening (for women)

A Pap smear or HPV test can detect early signs of cervical cancer, even before symptoms appear.
Who should go: Women aged 25 to 69 who have ever been sexually active.
How often: Every three to five years.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

This checks for early signs of colon cancer using a simple stool test.
Who should go: Men and women aged 50 and above.
How often: Once a year.

Each of these screening tests could save your life. They’re quick, straightforward, and now — super affordable.

Good news — getting screened doesn’t cost much at all. Under Healthier SG Screening, subsidised screenings are available for all eligible Singapore Citizens at Community Health Assist System (CHAS) GP clinics.

Under Healthier SG Screening, eligible Singapore citizens (SC) can enjoy subsidised screening tests that are suitable based on their age, sex, pre-existing conditions and their last health screening date.

Subsidised screenings are available for all eligible citizens at participating CHAS GP clinics and polyclinics. All eligible citizens who are enrolled with Healthier SG will be able to enjoy special subsidies at their enrolled clinic.

So no more saying, “I can’t afford it or health screening is expensive.” Health screenings are made even more affordable for everyone.

Korang OK by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) is more than just a campaign. It’s a movement that helps the Malay/Muslim community take charge of their health — one small, meaningful step at a time.

From active living and healthy eating to mental well-being and preventive care, Korang OK empowers every one of us to live life to the fullest. Because a healthy life is one where you can walk further, climb higher, and explore more — without your health holding you back.

The goal?
To encourage every member of the community to prioritise their health and actively participate in national programmes such as:

• Healthier SG Screening and Functional Screening
• HPB community programmes and Malay/Muslim-specific activities like Get Fit for Haj
• M³ FA5 partner initiatives, including Saham Kesihatan by M³@Town

By joining these initiatives, you’re not just improving your own well-being — you’re contributing to a healthier, stronger ummah.

Parents, this one’s for you.

Our children watch everything we do — what we eat, how active we are, and yes, whether we go for our screenings. When you prioritise your own health, you’re teaching them an important lesson: that self-care isn’t selfish, it’s responsible.

Bring your family into the journey!

• Schedule your screenings together.
• Prepare healthier meals at home.
• Take short walks after dinner instead of reaching for your phones.
  

Small actions like these add up to big changes. A healthy family is a happy family — and when families thrive, so does the whole community.

Through the collective efforts of M³ FA5, health has never been more accessible to the Malay/Muslim community.

Whether it’s screenings, fitness programmes, or health talks at your local mosque or community centre, there are countless ways to start your health journey today.

So no matter where you are in your journey — planning your first umrah, your retirement travels, or your next food-hopping trip — there’s no better time than now to put your health first.

At its core, Korang OK reminds us that health is not just about living longer — it’s about living better.

When you’re healthy, you can perform your prayers with ease, spend more time with loved ones, and contribute meaningfully to your community.

Health screenings are not something to fear — they’re an act of love and responsibility.

Love for your family.
Responsibility to yourself.
And commitment to the ummah.

So the next time you’re planning your next big adventure, remember:

Before you check your passport, check your health.
Before you buy travel insurance, book your health screening.

Because your body is the only travel companion that goes with you everywhere — treat it well.

Because when you’re okay, Korang OK.

✅ Visit https://go.gov.sg/fy25-moao-hhwt-has to check which screenings you’re due for and book your appointment at a nearby CHAS GP clinic.
✅ Bring your NRIC and CHAS card (if you have one).
✅ Make it a family affair — encourage your parents, spouse, or siblings to join you.

Let’s make health screenings a normal part of life, not an afterthought. Because when we look after our health, we’re not just protecting our bodies — we’re protecting our future.

This article is brought to you by the Health Promotion Board.