13-05-2025
‘The Invisible Struggle' at UTS draws over 200 attendees
Jimmy (second left) receives a token of appreciation from Chieng on stage.
SIBU (May 13): Over 200 participants recently gathered at the Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud Chancellor Hall, University of Technology Sarawak (UTS), to attend the Mental Health Awareness Campaign 2025.
Themed 'The Invisible Struggle', the programme was a collaborative effort organized by UTS Psychology and Counselling Unit and the Peer UniTED Club.
It was held in partnership with the Psychiatric & Mental Health Department of Hospital Sibu and the Sibu District Education Office (PPD Sibu).
Among the attendees were students and staff of UTS, school counsellors from primary and secondary schools, representatives from Kolej Vokasional Sibu and Kolej Laila Taib, healthcare professionals, and members of the public.
In his opening remarks, UTS Registrar Jimmy De Rozario said the campaign aimed to shine a spotlight on mental health issues, reduce stigma, and offer practical strategies to cope with anxiety, stress, and burnout —challenges that often remain hidden in daily life.
'Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It's about how you drive, not where you're going. Through platforms like this, we give voice to those who suffer in silence and provide avenues for healing and hope,' he said.
The program kicked off with an introduction by Dr Chong Chiew Wei, a psychiatrist, followed by an overview of the Peer UniTED Club delivered by its President, Mr Bruno.
A series of engaging talks and sharing sessions followed, including a session by Jevie Tiong from Morphos on managing burnout, and a moving personal testimony by Johnny Wong from Victory Home, who shared his life story and the impact of substance abuse.
One of the highlights was the forum titled 'Bual Bicara 'Burn Bright, Not Out', featuring a panel of mental health experts including Dr John Chieng, Head of the Psychiatric and Mental Health Department at Hospital Sibu; Edbert, a clinical psychologist at Hospital Sibu; and Kevin Wong, UTS Counsellor.
The discussion encouraged open conversations about mental health struggles, coping mechanisms, and early intervention strategies.
An exhibition was also held, featuring booths from organizations such as Peer UniTED Club, SPFA Youth Club (Sibu Branch), PPD Sibu Psychology and Counseling Sector, Mentari Sibu, Morphos Family Resource Club, Occupational Therapy Department, Victory Home, and AADK Sibu.
The exhibition provided attendees with the opportunity to explore available mental health services and community resources.
Campaign chairlady Hamidah highlighted the importance of community engagement in mental health advocacy.
'Today's event is a testament to the power of collaboration. By coming together — students, professionals, educators, and the public — we send a clear message: mental health matters and no one should face their struggles alone,' she said.
The success of 'The Invisible Struggle' campaign underscores the need for continued education, support, and openness in addressing mental health issues, especially among youth and within educational institutions. education mental health University of Technology Sarawak
