EMPOWERING MENTAL HEALTH – A DAY AT THE URBAN ORCHARD KUALA LUMPUR

On 24 July 2024, six students volunteered at the Urban Orchard Kuala Lumpur (UOKL). The project aimed to support UOKL’s vision of creating a sanctuary for individuals struggling with mental health issues and sharing the orchard’s fruits and flowers with the public. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 – Good Health and Well-Being.

Their activities included visiting the orchard, learning about its history, assisting with orchard tasks, and donating funds raised through their fundraising efforts. The students gained insights into the orchard’s role in promoting mental well-being. Their donation further supported this mission, helping to foster a connection between urban residents and nature for improved mental health.

One of the students, Mahmoud Abdelraouf, commented, “Visiting the Urban Community Orchard and Uncle Yen with my team-building group was a wonderful experience. We got our hands dirty picking fruits, which made us appreciate nature and teamwork more.” Another student, Leong Wen Jie, shared, “The visit to the orchard has given me an unforgettable experience. From the visit, I have learned various new things and widened my sea of knowledge.”

The students’ efforts highlighted the importance of teamwork, compassion, and community service in supporting mental health and well-being through engagement with nature.