A NATURE walk in Bukit Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, brought together hundreds of participants to promote physical well-being and raise awareness of mental health, highlighting how simple activities can support emotional health.
Organised by Joy Mind Centre in conjunction with World Mental Health Day, the event at Taman Persekutuan Bukit Kiara combined a 3.2km forest trail with educational activities and personal recovery stories to encourage greater understanding of mental health.
It was attended by Joy Mind Centre founder and clinical psychologist Joyce Chao, singer-songwriter Atilia Haron, Miss Cosmoworld founder and celebrity Carrie Lee, Lima Pulo founder and actor Alan Yun and international badminton player representing England Racheal Lam.
Corporate figure Tengku Datuk Dr Hishammuddin Zaizi was the guest of honour of the event.
The nature walk kicked off with an energising warm-up session, while the forest trail encouraged attendees to “slow down and feel”.
There were also interactive educational booths and a special session titled “Kenali Ubat Anda” presented by Hospital Kuala Lumpur to promote medication literacy and demystify mental health treatment.
An awareness exhibition showcased real recovery stories, conveying hope for mental healing.
Aligning with the 2026 global theme, “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change”, the event highlighted the importance of involving individuals with lived experiences in shaping future mental healthcare and policies, the centre said in a statement.
According to Chao, Oct 10 which is the World Mental health Day is more than just a calendar date, but a reminder to care for emotional well-being and check in on those around us.
“Immersing ourselves in nature helps calm the nervous system.
“Through this walk, we hope to inspire people to reconnect with nature and each other while fostering a healthier lifestyle,” she added.
The initiative was also aimed at raising resources to provide sponsored therapy and mental health services for underprivileged communities.
