MUET Malaysian University English Test, Paper 2: Speaking

Overview of the Test

• Part 1: Candidates receive a task sheet with questions to discuss ways of keeping healthy.
  • 2 minutes to prepare.
  • 2 minutes to present.
• Part 2: Discussion on how to improve healthcare.
  • 3 minutes to prepare.
  • 8-12 minutes to discuss and reach a conclusion.

Part 1: Candidate Presentations

Candidate A: Importance of Nutrition

• Key points:
  • Importance of what and when people eat.
    • "An apple a day keeps the doctor away."
    • Strong, balanced diet critical for health.
    • Consuming more fruits and vegetables helps prevent diseases (e.g., obesity).
  • Need to reduce junk food consumption, especially among children.
  • Stress importance of three main meals daily:
    • Breakfast, lunch, dinner recommended.
    • Breakfast crucial for energy throughout the day.

Candidate B: Importance of Exercise

• Benefits of exercise for health:
  • Helps keep the body healthy, lowers risk of diseases.
  • Supports excretory system by eliminating toxins.
  • Reduces risk of obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure.
  • Positive effects on mental health (release of dopamine).
  • Promotes social relationships and stress relief through group activities.

Candidate C: Importance of Regular Checkups

• Key arguments:
  • Regular doctor visits allow early detection of diseases.
  • Enables guidance on health improvements (diet, medication).
  • Prevents disease spread through early intervention.

Candidate D: Importance of Rest

• Highlighted points:
  • Rest involves sleep and relaxation; reduces stress.
  • Helps maintain alertness and mood.
  • Supports growth, especially in children.
  • Adequate rest crucial for immune system health.

Conclusion of Part 1

• Each candidate addressed a unique aspect of health (nutrition, exercise, checkups, rest).

Part 2: Discussion on Improving Healthcare

Key Points of Discussion

• More Doctors:
  • Reduce wait times in hospitals.
  • Current health system under strain, especially in general hospitals.
• Educating The Public:
  • Improve hygiene practices (e.g., hand washing).
  • Use media to educate about health risks and preventative measures.
• Cleanliness:
  • Maintenance of cleanliness critical to preventing disease outbreaks.
• Hospital Improvements:
  • Infrastructure upgrades needed in general hospitals for better patient care.
  • Importance of well-trained nurses to support doctors.
• Cost of Medicine:
  • High medicine costs affect access to treatment; need for affordable options.
• Mental Health Awareness:
  • Education on mental health is crucial; awareness can lead to better support and care.

Conclusion of Part 2

• Consensus agreement: Education is fundamental to improving overall healthcare in Malaysia, influencing public health awareness, support for mental health, and nurturing healthcare professionals' passion for their jobs.