Festival features activities to explore mortality
PETALING JAYA: Lying in a coffin while still alive may not be everyone’s idea of a weekend activity.
But for those attending the Life Celebration Festival in Putrajaya later this month, it’s part of an exercise that helps with confronting death and better appreciating life.
The event aims to demystify death through interactive experiences, including a “coffin- laying” session, a death cafe, legal talks on will-writing, and even children-friendly activities exploring the concept of mortality, said Malaysian Association of Paediatric Palliative Care (Mappac) president Dr Lee Chee Chan.
“Lying in the coffin is a celebration of life. Many times, we don’t appreciate (life) while we are still breathing.
“So, when the visitor is lying in the coffin, it will be closed.
“Then a counsellor will guide the person in expressing how they feel about it,” said Lee in an interview yesterday.
The three-day event, organised by Mappac, is starting on Aug 21 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.
“This event is meant to show people that this issue is important and they should plan for it rather than wait for the day.
“That is why we want the public to experience this and to celebrate how important life is and prepare for death,” said Dr Lee.
Dr Lee also said the subject of death will be discussed at a “death cafe”, where visitors will sit in groups and talk about the subject with a glass of coffee.
“For instance, we can share past experiences regarding how to confront death within the family, and we will also develop various scenarios related to the topic,” said Dr Lee.
He said there will be various programmes such as drawing, craft sessions and an exhibition.
“Anyone interested in being a participant just has to register and book a seat,” added Dr Lee.
The event is held as part of the Children’s Palliative Care Malaysia 2nd National Conference 2025.
For more information, please contact Mappac on WhatsApp at +6016-223 1357
