USM PENANG, 3 May 2026 – The ‘Singgah Santai Kesejahteraan’ Programme introduced at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has been described as a significant initiative towards strengthening the mental and physical well-being of the USM community.

Organised by the USM Human Resource Division (BSM), Registrar Department through the Staff Relations and Well-being Unit (UPKS), the programme is also regarded as a proactive approach in addressing issues relating to mental well-being.

The programme, held on 27 April, marked the inaugural outreach initiative (Series 1) conducted at the USM Security Department and will be implemented progressively at other Centres of Responsibility (PTJ) across the university.

The initiative is also in line with the recommendation of the USM Registrar, Mohd. Azizuddin Mohd. Shariff, who emphasises an inclusive and comprehensive approach to the development of overall staff well-being.

The programme was conducted by four psychologists together with UPKS staff in collaboration with Pusat Sejahtera USM, with the aim of promoting staff counselling services and enhancing awareness of the importance of mental health care among members of the university community.

Despite facing work-related commitments, the participation of the Security Department staff was highly encouraging, both in person and online.

The programme also received strong management support, including the attendance of the Director of the Security Department, Prabu Mogan.

Various relaxing and interactive activities were organised to encourage participant engagement, including sharing sessions on staff counselling services and mental health awareness.

Knowledge-based elements were also incorporated through interactive quizzes using the Kahoot and Mentimeter platforms, which successfully created a more dynamic and enjoyable learning environment.

In addition, the programme included an initial mental well-being screening through the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) assessment, alongside the sharing of effective stress management techniques that can be applied in daily life.

As an added value, a blood pressure screening counter managed by Pusat Sejahtera USM was also provided to support the physical well-being of staff in a holistic manner.

The organisation of such programmes is expected to continue strengthening the mental and physical well-being of the USM community in a comprehensive manner, while supporting the creation of a healthier, more positive, and productive working environment.

Original Text & Photo: Nur Amirah Asyikin Hasmizar, Staff Relations and Well-being Unit, Human Resource Division, Registrar Department, USM/Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin