Mental Health Association of Sarawak (MHAS) has been providing support and services to people with mental health needs in Sarawak, for over 50 years.
MHAS has developed alongside public mental health services, and was the first non-governmental organisation in Sarawak to do this. We now work with emerging partners in the private sector and the public sector, to strive to improve the lives of anyone suffering with mental illness.Our mission has changed a little over the years.
You can read more about Our History here. We focus on raising mental health awareness, challenging stigma and discrimination towards people with mental illness, and operating services to support people with mental health needs in the community. We aim to influence a more compassionate society, where people with mental health needs can feel empowered and live positive productive lives.
MHAS has also established itself as a trusted source of information about mental health. Our members (including our committee members) consist of hundreds of the most qualified mental health experts in Sarawak, ranging from Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Counsellors, Social workers, and Educators. We work with public and private sector partners to provide education and training in schools, workplaces, rural communities, and wherever else we see a need to improve awareness and increase accessibility to mental health services. MHAS recognises that national mental health is not static.
The impact of COVID-19 on national mental health has caused us once again to innovate, and rethink the way we deliver some services. Now you will find some of our services, and lots more information, online.For MHAS, there is no health, without mental health.
To be the premier organization for promoting mental health awareness and delivering community mental health services in Sarawak
To promote positive attitudes and awareness about mental health
To educate, train, and deliver programmes to support wellbeing
To raise the standards of mental health support and treatment
To advocate for and defend the rights and interests of people with mental health conditions
To be a trusted source of information about mental health
To provide evidence-based mental health services and support
To tell people’s stories, to build supportive communities, and to research how mental health affects people every day in Sarawak
To work with community partners to reduce suicide and other tragic mental health issues
To support caregivers and families affected by mental health illness
As a non-government organisation our primary goal is to raise awareness of mental health illnesses and ensure everyone can get access to the support they need. Support our cause to champion mental health awareness by Volunteering or Making a Donation.