The Community Development Department (JAPEM) published its first ever code of ethics for its counsellors during ceremony at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium’s VIP room yesterday.
The JAPEM Counsellor Code of Ethics is expected to serve as a guideline for counsellors in the department, and as a reference for counsellors in the country with a goal of producing more professional counselling officers, said Permanent Secretary (Community) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari.
The code also aims to combat societal stigma and encourage otherwise hesitant individuals to come forward to seek treatment, she added.
The publication comprised eight main sections, including professional values and skills, she said, adding that it outlines procedures for conducting services with fairness and honesty, and protecting the integrity of the relationship between counsellors and clients.
The code of ethics “also support the mental health action plan 2022-2025 where the first strategy is Strengthen Effective Leadership and Governance for Mental Health.
“Under Priority Action 5, the MCYS and the Public Services Department are entrusted in together work towards preparing of National Code of Ethics with cooperation from other agencies,” she added.
Acting Director of JAPEM Fauziah binti Haji Mohd Salleh said, “The publication is one of JAPEM’s continuous initiatives in improving the quality of counselling services at JAPEM, in line with its mission of ‘providing professional counselling services towards producing a resilient society.” – James Kon
