By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, Nov 2: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has accepted Malaysia’s invitation to establish the ASEAN Counseling Network (ASCON).
ASEAN comprises of ten Southeast Asian states namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
Disclosing this at the International Counseling Convention 2022 gala dinner tonight, International Counseling Association Malaysia (PERKAMA) president Dato Dr Abdul Halim Hussin said ASCON aims to cement closer ties and collaboration among counseling and mental health practitioners in the region.
“We anticipate that issues of psychological wellbeing will be on the rise in the coming years.
“As this was confirmed by our international speakers at the International Counseling Convention (ICC) 2022 session today, our united efforts will be very important in facing this challenge.
“The first steps were taken earlier today at a meeting of representatives from the counselling associations from Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Myanmar, Brunei Darusslaam, as well as Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos,” Abdul Halim said.
He asserts that the declaration of the formation of ASCON in Kuching will mark the next level of collaboration and solidarity in ASEAN counselling.
A total of 525 presenters and participants ranging from practicing counselors, teachers, administrators, health workers and helpers from various countries and settings took part in ICC 2022.
Calling them committed members of a community dedicated to ensuring the mental health and wellbeing of society, Abdul Halim said the ICC 2022 was a long journey that became reality when it was mooted back in 2016.
“Despite facing obstacles followed by the Covid-19 pandemic and its consequences, PERKAMA never gave up and never relented in its hopes and aspiration to hold the ICC2022 on site in Kuching, and not through a portal in cyberspace.
“It is also apt that we should share information and ideas about our counseling profession centred around the paradox of being isolated and cut off – but doing it together,” he added.
Meanwhile, the gala dinner was officiated by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. — DayakDaily
