The Knowledge Convention 2024 forum for Brunei Muara District focused on rising mental health issues like depression, anxiety and emotional stress, particularly within the Muslim community.
The forum, a continuation held to mark His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 78th birthday celebration, was held at the International Convention Centre, Berakas yesterday.
The forum ‘Emosi ku eh!’ is in line with the 2024 Knowledge Council Celebration’s main theme ‘Addressing Mental Symptoms’. It highlighted that good mental health will be able to help a person’s ability to manage emotions, carry out life with a positive attitude, be productive and have a balanced approach. Panellists included Professor Dato’ Dr Haji Zulkifly bin Haji Muda of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali, psychologist from the Community Psychology Unit at the Ministry of Health Hajah Rozailah binti Haji Abdul Rahman and Siti Hanisah binti Haji Osman from Institut Tahfiz Al-Quran Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.
The discussion emphasised Brunei’s approach to mental health through patience, efforts and lessons learnt and called for integrating medical and spiritual treatment to prevent and treat mental health disorders.
Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh was the guest of honour. Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal) Pengiran Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Zety Sufina binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Sani as the joint chair of the working committee of Knowledge Convention 2024 also attended. – James Kon
