APU School of Psychology hosts its first-ever student-led forum to explore modern masculinity

In celebration of International Men's Day, observed annually in mid-November to recognise the positive contributions of men worldwide, the School of Psychology (SoP) at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) hosted its first-ever student-led forum titled "Redefining Wellness in Modern Men" on 25th November 2024.

The forum sought to challenge traditional notions of masculinity by spotlighting the importance of physical, emotional, and mental health in the fast-paced modern world. Through open dialogues and expert perspectives, the event aimed to redefine wellness for today’s men and encourage a more balanced approach to life.

Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

One of the primary objectives of the forum was to shatter the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. Open discussions tackled key topics such as emotional regulation, stress management, societal expectations, and the balance between career progression and personal well-being. Participants were encouraged to embrace vulnerability as a strength, fostering a supportive environment for honest conversations.
 

Expert Insights on Wellness

The distinguished panel of speakers shared valuable insights on various aspects of men’s wellness:

Dr Glorian Paul Bosco, a Medical Doctor from Hospital Tuanku Ampuan Najihah, highlighted the importance of preventive care in addressing physical and mental health challenges, particularly within high-stress professions like healthcare.

Mr Robin Cheah Wen Kit, a Lecturer from APU’s School of Marketing & Management (SoMM), emphasised the role of workplaces in promoting wellness, advocating for supportive environments and sustainable work-life balance.

Mr Kar Hui Cheong, a Mental Health and Well-being Advisor from MiCare Sdn. Bhd., explored the societal pressures men face and provided practical strategies for resilience, emotional regulation, and seeking help without fear of judgment.

Empowered by Student Leadership

Under the guidance of faculty leaders Ms Dhevaania C. Gendsen and Ms Amirah Husna, APU students played a pivotal role in organising and facilitating the forum. Ahmad Syahir Bin Azali, a second-year psychology student, moderated the event with professionalism, ensuring diverse perspectives were heard, while Ameerul Haziq Bin Azizi energised the audience as the event emcee. Ms Vinorra Shaker, Head of the School, provided leadership and guidance to ensure the success of this project.

Aligning Wellness with Global Goals

The forum aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. It underscored the importance of integrating wellness into both personal and professional lives, fostering environments that support long-term health and happiness.

A Milestone for APU Psychology Society

This groundbreaking initiative marked a significant milestone for the School of Psychology and the APU Psychology Society. It not only raised awareness about men’s health but also sparked meaningful conversations about reimagining masculinity in today’s society.

By encouraging men to prioritise their mental health and redefine strength as embracing wellness, the forum empowered participants to lead healthier, more balanced lives. 

As the first student-led forum of its kind, "Redefining Wellness in Modern Men" showcased APU’s commitment to nurturing future leaders who are unafraid to tackle critical societal issues.