KUCHING: There is an increasing demand for psychologists and counsellors in Sarawak to serve the 2.9 million population in the state.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said currently, Sarawak has 488 active counsellors serving the community all over the state who are registered under the Malaysian Board of Counsellors.
“We have a 2.9 million population in Sarawak; which means one counsellor will serve 6, 000 persons. Clearly, there is a growing demand for psychologists and counsellors in the state.
“Recognising the importance of counselling and psychology services, the state of Sarawak envisioned a “One Community One Counsellor” that targets at achieving the holistic wellbeing of our people.”
He said this in his speech during the International Counselling Convention (ICC) 2022 Gala Dinner held at a hotel here yesterday.
Abang Johari said he has commissioned the establishment of Sarawak Psychology Counselling Community Centre (SPCC) in realising the need for the community psychological support.
“It is a special initiative of the state government to care for the mental health and wellbeing of the people, especially those psychological disturbed,” he said.
In consideration of these needs, Abang Johari said Sarawak’s Civil Service (SCS) psychological and counselling services have been further strengthened by implementing the policy for the Application of Psychology in Human Resource Management to all agencies and departments under the State government.
“With 42 Psychology Officers placed in these agencies and departments, we are committed to support the mental health and wellbeing of our civil servants.
“Another initiative is the SCS Employee Wellbeing Model, which was developed to serve as a guide in implementing initiatives towards developing a thriving workforce, both mentally and physically.
“This initiatives create opportunities and establish an environment to facilitate the development of a healthy, happy, successful and productive civil workforce,” he said.
Among those present were State Secretary Datuk Amar Abu Bakar Marzuki; Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) Vice-Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kadim Suaidi; President of International Counselling Association Malaysia (PERKAMA) Datuk Dr Abdul Halim Hussin and President of International Association for Counselling Prof Dr William Borgen.
