By: Mrs. Noorihayatti binti Noorudin _^K.B.;P.A.

SERDANG, June 3 - In an effort to promote mental well-being and encourage healthy emotional management, the Mental Health Section of the UPM Counselling Division has launched a new initiative called Kongsi Kopi. This program adopts a small-group guidance approach to ensure meaningful interaction takes place in a comfortable and conducive setting. The sessions were held at the Group Room, UPM Counselling Division, and ran in four series - starting with Series 1 on May 9, 2025, followed by Series 2 on May 15, 2025 Series 3 on May 20, 2025 and concluding with Series 4 on May 30, 2025.

What sets Kongsi Kopi apart is its casual yet meaningful approach to group support. A total of eight participants had the opportunity to share their experiences and emotions in a relaxed environment — all while enjoying a cup of coffee. The sessions were facilitated by registered counsellor Ms. Noorihayatti Noorudin, and focused on topics such as stress management, emotional balance, positive social support, and building inner strength.

According to the organisers, Kongsi Kopi is more than just casual conversations - it’s a platform for healing and self-empowerment.

“Many people keep their feelings bottled up because they lack a safe space to express themselves. Through Kongsi Kopi, we aim to provide that space - free from pressure and judgment.”

A variety of activity modules were also included to help participants explore their emotions more deeply. Among them was Art Therapy, which allowed participants to express their feelings creatively through drawings and symbolic representations. The Mirror Activity guided them to reflect and write about their personal strengths, while the 6-Box Exercise helped participants clarify their goals and manage expectations based on their own internal resources.

These activities were not only enjoyable, but also offered a therapeutic and holistic path to self-awareness.

Participants showed strong engagement throughout the program. They were open in sharing their personal experiences and provided mutual support to one another. The spirit of empathy and mutual understanding that developed among the group became a key strength of Kongsi Kopi. Many participants reported feeling relieved, heard, and accepted after joining the sessions.

Date of Input: 10/06/2025 | Updated: 10/06/2025 | ayna