HEALING MINDS THROUGH NATURE: KEMBARA ALAM FOR MENTAL WELLNESS

15 & 16 February 2025, Saturday to Sunday

UCYP University successfully organised Program Mental Wellness: Kembara Alam – Ketenangan Minda as a holistic mental well-being initiative that integrates nature-based experiences to support emotional balance, self-awareness and stress management. Aligned with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, the programme emphasised mental health as a core component of overall well-being through reflective, relaxation and mindfulness-based activities in a natural environment.

The programme was held from 15 to 16 February 2025 in Kuala Krai, Dabong, Kelantan, involving 40 participants comprising UCYP University staff, counsellors and members of the PEERS Club. Participants engaged in eco-therapy experiences within Dabong’s natural landscape, widely recognised as an eco-adventure destination, providing a conducive setting for emotional restoration and mental clarity.

Beyond individual well-being, the programme strengthened collaborative engagement among institutions, counsellors and the local community, supporting SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through shared expertise, resources and joint implementation. Participants demonstrated high engagement levels, stronger interpersonal connections and improved coping skills, contributing to long-term mental resilience.

Moving forward, UCYP University plans to position this initiative as a periodic mental wellness programme, integrate structured interventions such as mindfulness and forest therapy, and implement systematic impact assessments to ensure sustainability and continuous improvement.

The Mental Wellness: Kembara Alam – Ketenangan Minda programme reflects UCYP University’s commitment to fostering a mentally resilient, healthy and inclusive campus community, while advancing the SDG agenda through sustainable, collaborative and nature-driven well-being initiatives.