Support for mental health through creativity, conversation
RECOGNISING the needs of those weighed down by stress, burnout or emotional fatigue, a non-governmental organisation has opened a new space in Johor Baru to offer them a place to heal and be heard without judgement.
Miasa, an association concentrating on mental health awareness and support, has launched a new clubhouse in the Johor capital, its third branch after Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Terengganu.
Its branch manager Muhammad Ridhuan Abdul Malik said the clubhouse was run by staff and volunteers with experience, with the aim of creating a stigma-free community hub for those struggling with mental health challenges.
“The clubhouse is not a clinical facility. Instead, we offer peer-based support in a warm and welcoming environment that encourages healing through connection, creativity and conversation.
“We are not here to diagnose or treat but to listen, support and guide.
“Sometimes, what people really need is just someone who understands and won’t judge them,” he told StarMetro.
The centre is equipped with a “soul space”, “healing space”, learning rooms and a listening room – each designed to help individuals open up at their own pace.
He explained that the centre also organises activities including art classes, dance, beatboxing and workshops to help participants release stress and rediscover joy.
Muhammad Ridhuan said Miasa wanted people to know they were not alone, and that their lives had meaning, purpose and potential.
He shared that many who came through their doors often dealt with stress, anxiety, depression or past trauma.
“What holds them back from seeking help is fear, either of being labelled, misunderstood or seen as weak.
“That is why we call the centre a ‘clubhouse’ as it feels less intimidating than mental health centre.
“It is a place to just be yourself,” he added.
Having faced his own struggles, Muhammad Ridhuan said he understood how easy it was to live in denial.
He recalled the wake-up call that changed his life, when he almost got into an accident caused by mental exhaustion.
“After that incident, I knew I had to seek help.
“And now I want others to know it is okay to speak up,” he said.
The clubhouse also offers Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, equipping participants with the tools to support those who may be at risk of self-harm.
“Our team includes university lecturers, certified psychologists, counsellors and peer volunteers who are united by a desire to give back through empathy and experience.
“If we feel a case requires professional help, we refer them to the appropriate services,” said Muhammad Ridhuan.
“We hope more people will find the courage to walk through our doors and discover that healing is possible and that what they are feeling is valid,” he added.
Miasa also runs a 24-hour helpline in collaboration with Sime Darby Foundation at 1-800-180-066 and a WhatsApp support line at 03-9765 6088, manned by trained volunteers ready to lend an ear at any hour.
The Johor Baru clubhouse is open on weekdays from 9.30am to 6.30pm, and on Saturdays from 9.30am to 1pm.
It is located at B-04-01, 1Tebrau, Kampung Setanggi.
For details, call Miasa headquarters at 03-7932 1409.
