OHBULAN! Launches ‘Besties, Pape Roger’: A Campaign Redefining Mental Health Narratives Across M’sia

By Lara Kramer  •  04 Oct 2023 in News

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OHBULAN!, in a passionate collaboration with Mental Illness Awareness and Support (MIASA) and TikTok Malaysia, proudly unveils the ‘Besties, Pape Roger’ Mental Health Awareness Campaign. Launched in sync with the global observance of ‘World Mental Health Day’ on October 10, this month-long initiative seeks to illuminate the shadows surrounding mental health issues in Malaysia.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of mental health challenges in Malaysia has surged dramatically. Startling data from the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) initiative under the National Mental Health Excellence Center, Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), revealed a five-fold increase in individuals seeking support in 2022 compared to 2020. The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2015 further underscored the gravity of the situation, indicating that one in three Malaysians aged 16 and above grapple with mental health issues.

Alarming figures from 2019, reported by MOH, indicated that 2.3% of adults and 9.5% of children aged 10 to 15 years were affected, with a predicted upward trajectory in these numbers.

The campaign transforms the well-known Malay phrase ‘pape roger’ into a warm invitation for help. It simplifies the message: ‘Reach out, we’re here for you,’ creating a safe space where seeking support is encouraged and embraced.

@ohbulanofficial Korang tahu prestasi kesihatan mental korang tak? #ohbulan #BestiesPapeRoger #MentalHealthAwareness #KekalSihat ♬ Storytelling – Adriel

Under the visionary leadership of Anita Abu Bakar, President and Founder of MIASA, the ‘Besties, Pape Roger’ campaign aspires to dispel myths and dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health. Bakar emphatically stated, “All mental illnesses can be overcome, but it demands comprehensive, consistent treatment and time, as symptoms often recur. Understanding and acceptance are pivotal in this journey, which is often marred by misconceptions and negative labels.”

Head of Operations and Marketing at TikTok Malaysia, Hooi Yin Yin, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the power of open dialogue. She asserted, “Change commences with conversations. ‘Besties, Pape Roger’ believes in fostering frank, empathetic discussions, dismantling unnecessary stigmas, and nurturing resilient communities. When individuals share their experiences honestly, we pave the way for healthier, safer societies.”

Additionally, OHBULAN! leveraged its status as Malaysia’s premier Socialtainment platform to engage local celebrities in candid conversations about their mental health struggles. Azyan Shorlokman, Campaign Manager for ‘Besties, Pape Roger,’ expressed gratitude for celebrities like Nadia Brian, Zynakal, Sharifah Sakinah, Shuhada Shukri, and Ayu Hot FM, who courageously shared their stories.

Shorlokman emphasised, “Their openness underscores a fundamental truth: mental health issues do not discriminate, and seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness.”

To facilitate open expression, OHBULAN! has launched a dedicated website for the campaign, providing a safe, anonymous space for individuals to share their experiences without fear of judgment. Through articles, videos, and engaging social media content, ‘Besties, Pape Roger’ aims to nurture understanding and empathy within the community.

Join OHBULAN! and its partners in this transformative campaign during Mental Health Awareness Month. Let us stand together, raise our voices, and foster a society where mental health is not just a topic of discussion, but a priority.

For more information, visit campaign website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram,  TikTok, YouTube and X.