Cyberjaya, 21st October 2022 - In recognition of World Mental Health Day 2022, the University of Cyberjaya (UoC) was invited to participate in the launch of the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health (NCEMH). NCEMH is a public mental health facility that operates under the Ministry of Health (MOH). It will serve as a central location for the control and coordination of mental health services, as well as a hub for the sharing of information between public and private agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Associate Professor Dr. Anasuya Jegathevi Jegathesan, the Dean for UoC’s Faculty of Psychology and Social Sciences together with staff members and students from the Faculty attended the launching event. UoC’s booth highlighted the University’s Psychology programme as well as its free mental health clinic for staff and students.
Recognising the importance of mental health, and the lack of attention it has in the country, the University established its Psychology programmes in 2013. More than 400 have graduated from the undergraduate and diploma programme since.
According to Dr. Anasuya, Psychology and Social Sciences is so much more than the study of human minds and behaviour. “It is the study of how you engage with and meet the challenges of the world. It is understanding the human condition and appreciating your role in evolving human interactions on a personal, social, and global level. We are committed to the understanding of the ever-evolving scientific patterns of human cognition, emotions, behaviour and social interactions,” she said.
The University also recognizes the importance of mental health and the need for more professionals in the field. Currently, there is only 1 Psychologist per 100,000 Malaysians, according to a News Straits Times source. Much lower than the recommended WHO ratio of 1 for every 10,000 people. At University of Cyberjaya, students are able to complete their Diploma, Undergraduate as well as Postgraduate studies in Psychology studies, allowing them to have the most comprehensive coverage for knowledge related to the field. Students will also gain access to academics who are dedicated towards their profession as an educator as well as in the field of mental health.
The launch was officiated by Minister of Health, Khairy Jamaluddin stating that through a bio-psychosocial and spiritual approach, NCEMH will be able to close service gaps and promote the sharing of mental health expert resources by specialists. The NCEMH will be run by a total of 54 staff members from a variety of professions, with the first 30 staff members in charge of running services within the facility located in Cyberjaya.