By : Mrs. Ayna Marliana binti Mohamad Sari

SERDANG, August 29 - In conjunction with Malaysia’s Independence Month, the Counseling Division of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) organized a special broadcast through the CIT CAT Putra FM “Bersama Kaunselor” segment entitled “Free the Soul: Liberating Yourself from Fear”, which took place on 26 August 2025, from 12.00 p.m. to 1.00 p.m.

The one-hour program was broadcast live via Putra FM Campus Radio on frequency 90.7 MHz and simultaneously streamed on the official Facebook pages of UPM Counseling Division, Putra FM, as well as the Putra FM official website. The session was open to the entire campus community and the general public online.

This episode featured Mrs. Kamariah Derasol, a Psychology Officer from the Counseling Division of UPM, who delivered an insightful discussion on the meaning of independence from a psychological perspective, particularly on breaking free from the shackles of fear that disrupt emotional stability and hinder personal growth.

Among the key points shared were how uncontrolled fear can lead to anxiety issues, as well as methods to identify hidden sources of fear. She also recommended practical strategies such as self-affirmation exercises, grounding techniques, and building positive routines that can help individuals break out of the cycle of fear.

According to Mrs. Kamariah, “Fear is a normal human reaction, but it should not be allowed to dominate our lives. True independence begins when we are able to make peace with fear and have the courage to move forward.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Ansarul Haq bin Tahrir Adli, the program coordinator, stated, “The aim of this program is to raise awareness among UPM students and staff that independence is not merely physical, but also involves the liberation of the mind and emotions from fears that hinder self-growth.” He added that such initiatives could help strengthen the campus community to become more resilient, confident, and psychosocially balanced.

This program aligns with the Counseling Division’s ongoing efforts to enhance mental health awareness while encouraging the campus community to be more open in discussing their feelings and inner challenges. The broadcast also demonstrated a psychoeducational approach that was casual yet meaningful in fostering a more resilient campus community.

With its friendly, interactive, and inspiring delivery, the session successfully sparked reflection among listeners on the meaning of inner freedom, in line with the spirit of independence celebrated nationwide.

Date of Input: 29/08/2025 | Updated: 29/08/2025 | ayna