10/05/2025

SATURDAY | MAY 10, 2025

6

Boost for Selangor

mental health programmes KLANG: The Selangor government is open to collaborating with the Malaysian Occupational Therapy Association to strengthen an inclusive and responsive public health ecosystem in the state. State Public Health and Environment Committee chairman Jamaliah Jamaluddin said this could empower the field of public health, thus strengthening the efforts and initiatives on early mental health intervention programmes introduced by the state government, such as Selangor Mental Sihat (Sehat). She said the initiative, which highlights topics related to emotional and mental well-being, comprised several components such as the Sehat Hub Counsellor Programme, Sehat Hotline as well as “Bicara Hati bersama Kaunselor” or “Pakar Psikologi” slots on SelangorFM radio. “For a start, the state health department could start discussions with the association for cooperation in carrying out rehabilitation programmes in the 12 districts in Selangor. “I believe occupational therapists can play a key role in advocacy and promoting the services offered because there may be some in the community who do not know how to seek treatment and rehabilitation,” she said at the launch of the Malaysian Occupational Therapy National Conference on Wednesday. Jamaliah also said there is an urgent need to increase the number of occupational therapists in the country to meet the current demand, especially with the increased number of senior citizens, special needs children, and chronic diseases and mental health issue cases. “With a current ratio of only one occupational therapist to more than 10,000 people, Malaysia is still far behind when compared to Japan and the US. “As such, more efforts, such as training more students, empowering the career pathway, expanding service opportunities and recognising the contribution of the profession, need to be implemented immediately for the welfare of the people.” – Bernama

Razali (right) being assisted by Terengganu Tourism director Hilman Hajijan during the launch ceremony yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Foreign participants to enliven Terengganu squid fest

MARANG: The Terengganu Squid Jigging event this year is expected to be more lively, with the participation of 50 foreigners. State Tourism, Culture, Environment and Climate Change Committee chairman Datuk Razali Idris said for the first time, Terengganu received participation from Thailand, Bangladesh, Chile, the Philippines and France. He added that the foreign participation not only helps to promote Terengganu’s tourism industry but also boosts promotions for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. “The uniqueness of the squid jigging event, themed ‘Pakat Maghi

o Some 3,000 boats ferrying 30,000 visitors expected during open jigging season between April and August

the waters off Terengganu for the squid jigging season, which started in April and will continue until August. “(The activity) is expected to generate an economic return of more than RM7.5 million for boat operators, hoteliers, homestay operators and local traders. “The squid jigging event has a direct impact on the local economy, particularly on fishermen, seafood traders and craftsmen. “Therefore, this programme remains a key component in the Terengganu tourism promotion calendar and has been selected for inclusion in VM2026,” he added. – Bernama

community,” he said at the launch of the 2025 squid jigging season at the Marang Tourism Jetty yesterday. Also present at the event was Kelantan Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage Committee chairman Datuk Kamarudin Md Nor. Razali said this year, some 3,000 boats carrying 30,000 tourists are expected to gather at

Candat Sotong 2025,’ has attracted the attention of social media influencers, the electronic media and foreign mainstream media. “Squid jigging is an iconic tourism attraction of the state that has been recognised and included in the VM2026 tourism calendar. It is not just a recreational activity, but a symbol of the cultural heritage of the Terengganu coastal