Suara Minda Launches First Pilot Workshop, Championing Clay Therapy

Suara Minda’s president Vishalatchi Arunagiri (second left, front row) and vice president Mala Davi (third left, front row) at the organisation’s clay therapy session.

PETALING JAYA, Feb 16: Suara Minda, an organisation that contributes towards mental wellbeing, successfully launched its first pilot workshop recently, aimed at providing therapy for participants via its activities.

The first workshop was all about clay therapy, promoting creative expression from participants. In a press release today, it said the event saw participation from a diverse group, including neurodivergent children, senior citizens, and adults.

The workshop was a lively and meaningful gathering, the statement from Suara Minda said. It also aknowledged the Eve Psycho Socio Rehabilitation’s team who provided the space for the initiative, in support of Suara Minda’s President Visha’s aspiration to make the project a reality.

The workshop was conducted in collaboration with key partners such as Zen Ceramic, Eve Psycho Socio Rehabilitation Centre, the Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA), the Selangor Mental Health Association (SMHA), Taylor’s University, S20Care, and several other NGOs.

In its message commending Visha’s work, the MMHA said: “We are proud to support Suara Minda, a peer-led organization dedicated to mental well-being. Their first-ever Clay Therapy Workshop is an exciting opportunity for those who believe in the power of creative expression to enhance mental health.”

Visha, in her speech, thanked Ronald from Zen Ceramic for sharing his insightful thoughts on the significance of clay therapy, as well as clay specialists Aine and How for their knowledge and techniques.

“A heartwarming highlight of the event was the participation of neurodivergent children, who displayed remarkable calmness and focus while creating beautiful clay pieces. Their engagement affirmed the therapeutic benefits of clay work in fostering concentration, creativity, and emotional well-being,” the statement further said.

At the event, Suara Minda also announced that it would soon see the development of a supported employment wing, aimed at assisting individuals with disabilities and senior citizens who face challenges integrating into the workforce.

“Our initiative will provide job coaching and entrepreneurship opportunities, in alignment with our President’s goals for the year,” vice presiden Mala said in the statement.

To further expand our reach, we are actively seeking funding to support underprivileged individuals, particularly from the B40 community, ensuring access to these beneficial programs.

The Suara Minda centre is located at 17, Jalan Anak Gasing 6/5, Petaling Jaya. For inquiries and appointments, please contact: 6017-3503257.

— WE