Mental health challenges affect one in five college students, a pressing concern INTI International College Penang tackled through its Counselling Awareness Month 2024. Centered around Embracing Wellness: Strengthening Mind, Empowering Life, the campaign spanned from 2 September to 24 October 2024, offering activities to promote resilience and well-being.
Key figures gather to mark the official launch of Counselling Awareness Month 2024 at INTI International College Penang. (From left) Sabatiah Binti Imam Abdul Rahman, Autistic Therapist from NASOM Butterworth; Nazwa Haris, Student Counselor at INTI; Lee Car-Men, Counselor from Home Dynamics; Suzanne, Volunteer from D’Home; YB Wong Yuee Harng, ADUN Pengkalan Kota; Hemalatha Murugiah, Chief Executive of INTI; Damian Lee, Senior Director of Student Experience at INTI International College Penang; and Saras Pillay, Outreach Director at Befrienders Penang.
The launch event at the college’s multipurpose hall set a strong tone for the campaign. Officiated by YB Wong Yuee Harng, ADUN of Pengkalan Kota, Pulau Pinang, the ceremony featured a captivating Malay dance performance by MPU lecturer Rafizi. The day’s highlight was a forum titled “The Pursuit of Happiness: Why Happiness Matters the Most,” moderated by Shu Yon Yeoh, Student Counselor at INTI International College Penang. Panellists Asmar Ahmad, LPPKN Counselor; Alex Lim Lian Sheng, Clinical Psychologist from D’Home; and Sabatiah Imam Abdul Rahman, Autistic Therapist from NASOM Butterworth, provided valuable insights into the role of happiness in fostering mental wellness.
Panelists discuss the importance of happiness and emotional well-being during the forum ‘The Pursuit of Happiness: Why Happiness Matters the Most,’ a highlight of Counselling Awareness Month 2024 at INTI International College Penang. (From left) Shu Yon Yeoh, Shu Yon Yeoh, Student Counselor at INTI International College Penang, Forum Moderator; Asmar Ahmad, LPPKN Counselor; Alex Lim Lian Sheng, Clinical Psychologist from D’Home; and Sabatiah Binti Imam Abdul Rahman, Autistic Therapist from NASOM Butterworth.
Hemalatha Murugiah, Chief Executive of INTI International College Penang, emphasised creating a supportive student environment. “At INTI, we’re committed to making mental health a priority. This month reminds students that seeking help is essential for their personal growth and well-being,” she stated.
Adding to the event’s impact, a vibrant NGO exhibition brought together organisations such as Befrienders Penang, D’Home Mental Health Association, NASOM, and Home Dynamics. Attendees could access brochures, mental health screenings, and detailed information about available support services. The event also featured a Fun Games Happy Minds segment and food trucks to encourage engagement, creating an inviting space for participants to connect and learn.
Student counsellor Nazwa Haris highlighted the initiative’s role in reducing stigma and normalising conversations about mental health. “Counselling Awareness Month helps students realise that mental health is as important as academic achievement. It’s okay to ask for help and prioritise your emotional well-being,” she explained.
The initiative fosters a culture of care by aiming to reduce stigma, encourage early intervention, and offer continuous support. Looking ahead, INTI will continue with activities like the International Charity Food Festival, where proceeds will support Befrienders Penang.
“We’re thankful to everyone who participated in Counselling Awareness Month 2024. Your support strengthens our community and ensures mental health remains a priority,” said Nazwa.
Students participate in interactive activities to promote mental health awareness and foster meaningful conversations during Counselling Awareness Month 2024 at INTI International College Penang.