By: Mrs. Kemelia binti Omar

SERDANG, 16 August - The Counseling Division of Universiti Putra Malaysia (BKUPM), through the Mental Health Section, continued its commitment to supporting community psychological well-being through the S.I.N.A.R. Youth Community Service Programme (Support, Inspiration, Values, Aspirations, Resilience) held on 27 June 2026, from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. at the Industrial Training and Rehabilitation Centre (PLPP), Bangi. The programme was organised in collaboration with the Hulu Langat District Social Welfare Department (JKM), Selangor, and the Centre for Waqf, Zakat and Infaq Management (WAZAN), UPM, involving 47 community participants.

The S.I.N.A.R. programme was designed to focus on the emotional, psychological and social development of adolescents under the supervision of JKM Hulu Langat. The initiative provided a safe space for participants to express their feelings, receive emotional support and develop a more positive understanding of themselves and the challenges they face in life.

One of the programme's key focuses was to enhance participants' motivation and confidence in their own potential. Participants were also guided to identify their personal strengths, develop positive self-worth, and cultivate a sense of responsibility and self-discipline. These elements are important in helping adolescents develop a stronger sense of identity and make more positive choices in life.

The programme also emphasised aspirations and future direction. Participants were encouraged to identify realistic life goals and recognise their potential as a foundation for planning their future. This exposure is expected to help them build confidence in setting meaningful goals and taking gradual steps towards a more positive and purposeful future.

An interactive approach combining psychoeducation, group counselling and self-development activities was also implemented to help participants understand the importance of emotional management and develop healthier coping skills. Through the activities, participants were given opportunities to explore ways of managing stress and life challenges constructively while strengthening their resilience.

The participation of 47 community members highlights the importance of continuous efforts to provide psychological support and self-development opportunities for adolescents. Such programmes not only enhance mental health awareness but also provide a platform for developing confidence, positive values and essential life skills that can benefit participants in facing future challenges.

The strategic collaboration between BKUPM, JKM Hulu Langat and WAZAN UPM also demonstrates Universiti Putra Malaysia's role in contributing professional expertise to the community. Such partnerships enable efforts to empower community well-being to be carried out in a more comprehensive and sustainable manner, particularly in supporting the development of young people.

Overall, the S.I.N.A.R. Youth Community Service Programme contributed positively to efforts to enhance mental health awareness, strengthen emotional management skills, build resilience, and cultivate positive self-worth and life aspirations among participants. BKUPM hopes that initiatives of this nature can continue to be expanded as platforms for psychological support, enabling adolescents to recognise their potential, build confidence, and face life's challenges with greater positivity and resilience.

Date of Input: 16/08/2026 | Updated: 16/08/2026 | ayna