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 emphasised the growing importance of addressing mental health issues that have been widely discussed.
Integrated efforts made by the Government of His Majesty in addressing mental health issues, which are increasing and concerning, are greatly welcomed, His Majesty said in a titah in conjunction with the new year 1446 Hijrah broadcast nationwide last night.
In the titah, His Majesty highlighted that more than 11,000 individuals, comprising children and adults, are receiving psychiatric and clinical psychology treatment at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Hospital.
His Majesty also stressed the need to strengthen existing efforts to effectively address mental health issues. The monarch underscored the importance of mental health programmes, in scientific and spiritual approaches that need to be activated through education, particularly religious education and continuous dakwah (Islamic preaching).
His Majesty also highlighted that these efforts are aligned with the concept of hijrah (migration), which encourages change or improvement from negativity to positivity. His Majesty added that the core practice through hijrah (migration) should be carried out together as a way of life to achieve the best changes in life.
In the titah, His Majesty commended the theme for this year’s Ilal Hijrah 1446 celebration ‘Nurturing the Mind’ of which according to the monarch, the mind determines a peaceful life.
His Majesty said that if the mind is healthy it leads to a healthy life, and if the mind is harmed, life will also be affected.
His Majesty said the mind can be nurtured by avoiding intoxicated substances. When a person is intoxicated, His Majesty said, their mind will face many issues.
For this reason, Islam is very strict in prohibiting intoxicated substances, the monarch added.
His Majesty also hoped that the year 1446 Hijrah would bring a blessed year for the ummah.
His Majesty said the Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is priceless in its significance, as it carries the most valuable message of guidance in history. It is seen as a blessing for the ummah, and with it, Islam began to spread freely and without hindrance, the Sultan said. – Rokiah Mahmud
