APU Celebrates World Mental Health Day with Engaging Activities and Inspiring Forums

In an initiative to mark World Mental Health Day, the Integrated Sustainability and Urban Creativity Centre (ISUC) at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) hosted an empowering event on October 10, providing a platform for open dialogue and empowerment in the realm of mental health

Embracing Mental Wellness served as a beacon of light, illuminating the path to mental health awareness and nurturing an inclusive space for individuals to openly discuss mental health topics. Held on APU’s campus situated at MRANTI Park, Bukit Jalil, the event was a joint effort with the School of Business (SoB) aimed at fostering understanding and compassion within the community.

The event featured a variety of engaging activities and informative 16 booths to promote mental wellness and self-care with a tunnel of photos that depicts happiness and sadness as well as an expression wall to depict the feelings of APU students.

Attendees had the unique opportunity to interact with mental health professionals, delve into valuable resources, and participate in interactive activities designed to nurture their mental well-being. The atmosphere of the event has proven the community's commitment to mental health advocacy under UN SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being.

The heart of the event lay in an inspiring forum on Forging Resilience Nurturing the Mind and Promoting Mental Well-Being in Challenging Circumstances. The Keynote speaker was Ms. Cynthia Paul, executive committee and Student Chapter Adviser of ISUC, besides a series of subject experts sharing.

Mr. Leong Yin Kit, YTL International College of Hotel Management CEO, talked about coping mechanisms to safeguard their mental health. Mr. Brian Lariche, the Make It Right Movement CEO, spoke on the challenges faced by the disabled community. Ms. Fatin Amin, author and golf instruction apprentice, talked about multifaceted challenges faced by young adults, including peer pressure and the need to keep up with rapid changes and trends.

Dr. Stephen Poon Tai Fook, Head of the Research Center of ISUC, moderated all talks, and Ir. Jacqueline Lukose, Student Liaison of ISUC, emceed the event. Throughout the talks, attendees were enlightened with insights into mental health awareness.

Adding an entertaining aspect to the event were the mesmerising performances by the APU Cheerleading Club. Their spirited routines not only captivated the audience but also emphasised the vital link between physical activity and mental well-being.

Embracing Mental Wellness was more than an event; it was a powerful reminder that mental health matters and that APU, through ISUC, stands as a pillar of support for one another. By coming together, fostering understanding, and breaking barriers, we take a significant step toward building a compassionate, mentally resilient society.