Support for those suffering mental health challenges in the workplace need support from leaders and team members. - ELISA VENTUR/Unsplash
Emerging Journey Asia (EJAsia) together with International Youth Centre (IYC), Persatuan Kaunseling Malaysia Antarabangsa (PERKAMA), International and Malaysian Occupational Safety and Health Practitioners (MOSHPA) will be organising Mental Health Experiential Conference 2.0 (MHEC 2.0) on Oct 18 and 19 (8am to 4.30pm) at Ballroom 1, Sime Darby Convention Centre (SDCC) in Bukit Kiara, Petaling Jaya.
With the theme "Psychological Health for Employers and Leaders," the conference hopes to make "a significant impact on leaders' lives" by equipping them with the tools and resources to improve mental health and overall well-being, the organisers said in their press statement announcing the event.
This initiative came out of the recognition of the pivotal role mental health plays in personal and professional growth and is therefore designed to support and uplift leaders within the corporate ecosystem.
In Malaysia, the economic cost of poor mental health is staggering, amounting to approximately RM 14.46 billion, or 1% of the country's GDP. In 2021, Malaysia witnessed 1,142 suicides, a number that continues to rise. "There are concerns about the under-addressed issue of mental health within the workplace, and the secrecy surrounding it often discourages employers and leaders from seeking assistance," the statement recorded.EJAsia understands the fear of being perceived as "inadequate" that some may have in their roles due to mental health challenges and also the dearth of information and resources available to employers and exemplary leaders seeking support.
"MHEC 2.0 seeks to bridge this gap, raising awareness and providing crucial resources to create a productive and supportive work environment, ultimately leading to happier, healthier, and more productive conditions for all," the statement read.
The conference will feature a range of interactive sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and experiential activities to promote mental health awareness, understanding, and support in both personal and professional settings.
The event will be launched by The Parliamentary Special Select Committee (PSSC) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, and the closing ceremony will be delivered by Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim. Both are dedicated advocates for mental health awareness, committed to making a difference in the lives of leaders affected by mental health concerns.
For more information, email sangeeta.kaur@ejasia.net
