Bandar Seri Begawan, 13 October 2026 – Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and Hibiscus EP (Brunei) B.V. (HEB) convened students, academics and members of the wider university community for a thought-provoking mental wellness programme, ‘The Weight You Don’t Talk About: Healing Invisible Wounds, Trusting the Unknown,’ held on 12th October 2026 at the Senate Room, Chancellor Hall, UBD.
Featuring distinguished organisational psychologist Dr Alizi Alias, the session encouraged participants to explore the often-overlooked emotional burdens carried by individuals and the importance of self-awareness, healing and resilience in navigating life’s uncertainties. Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, attendees were challenged to view mental wellbeing not merely as a personal concern, but as a critical foundation for leadership, growth and long-term success.
The talk was organised in recognition of the emotional and psychological pressures that can accompany university life. For students, these may include academic expectations, personal transitions, relationships, uncertainty about the future and challenges that are not always visible to others. The session therefore provided an important space for students to reflect on their mental wellbeing, recognise when they may need support, and understand that caring for their mental health is an essential part of navigating university life and preparing for the future.
Among the key messages from the session was that mental wellbeing should not only receive attention during times of crisis. Students were encouraged to develop greater self-awareness, acknowledge the emotional burdens or “invisible wounds” they may carry, and recognise that healing, resilience and seeking support are important parts of personal growth. The session also highlighted the importance of empathy, meaningful connection and supporting one another through periods of uncertainty.
The programme was delivered under the ongoing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between HEB and UBD, reflecting a shared commitment to empowering Brunei Darussalam’s next generation through initiatives that extend beyond academic achievement. The event also formed part of UBD Mental Health Month and was organised in collaboration with the UBD’s Centre for University Life and Wellness (UniHEALTH), the Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Centre for Islamic Studies (SOASCIS) and The ‘Ilm Journal platform under Al-Riyada Consulting.
As part of UBD Mental Health Month, the programme supports the university’s commitment to creating a campus culture where mental wellbeing is openly discussed, mental health literacy is strengthened, and students and staff are encouraged to seek support when needed. It complements UBD’s broader focus on student wellbeing by recognising that academic development and personal wellbeing are closely connected, and that a supportive university environment can help students build resilience, confidence and a stronger sense of connection.
Approximately 100 participants attended the session, the majority of whom were students, reflecting strong interest in conversations surrounding mental wellbeing, resilience and personal development. According to Dr Deeni Rudita Bin Idris, Director of UniHEALTH, “Good mental health and wellbeing are just as important as physical health. For our students to learn, grow and thrive, we need to create an environment where they feel able to talk about their challenges, understand their emotions and seek support without stigma. Our collaboration with Hibiscus EP (Brunei) is particularly valuable because meaningful partnerships between the University and industry allow us to extend the reach and impact of wellbeing initiatives, bring different perspectives and resources together, and demonstrate that supporting young people’s mental wellbeing is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can create more meaningful opportunities that equip our students not only for academic success, but also for life beyond university.”
As Brunei continues to invest in developing a knowledge-based economy and a highly capable workforce, programmes of this nature underscore the importance of nurturing young people who are not only intellectually competent, but also emotionally resilient, adaptable and equipped to lead through uncertainty. The challenges facing future generations will require leaders who possess strong character, empathy and the ability to make sound decisions in increasingly complex environments.
Recognising this need, HEB continues to invest in initiatives that strengthen youth development and community wellbeing as part of its broader commitment to creating sustainable value in Brunei Darussalam. The company believes that cultivating future leaders requires a holistic approach that supports both intellectual growth and personal wellbeing, enabling young people to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.
Through strategic partnerships with institutions such as UBD, HEB seeks to create opportunities that inspire learning, encourage self-development and build the confidence of young people to become responsible leaders in their communities and future workplaces. Such collaborations reflect the company’s belief that investing in youth today is an investment in the long-term resilience, prosperity and sustainability of the country.
The strong participation and engagement throughout the session highlighted the growing recognition of mental wellbeing as an essential component of leadership development. By creating safe spaces for dialogue and reflection, initiatives such as this help foster a generation that is better prepared to overcome challenges, support one another and contribute positively to society.
This event forms part of UBD Mental Health Month. Throughout October, UBD, particularly through its Centre for University Life and Wellness (UniHEALTH), is organising a range of activities aimed at enhancing awareness and knowledge among staff and students on the importance of caring for their mental health and wellbeing.
As part of the continuing programme, UBD will hold its Mental Health Day celebration on 13-14 October 2026 at the PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences. The two-day programme will feature workshops, forums and exhibitions and will be open to the public. These activities demonstrate UBD’s commitment to sustaining conversations around mental health beyond a single session and to continuing efforts that promote awareness, education, early support and a mentally healthy university community. Further information is available through UniHEALTH’s Instagram account, @unihealth.ubd.
The programme marks another meaningful milestone under the HEB-UBD MoU and demonstrates how industry-academia collaboration can drive positive social impact. More importantly, it reinforces a shared aspiration to develop future leaders who are not only academically accomplished, but also grounded in self-awareness, resilience and a sense of purpose.