Dear esteemed colleagues, partners, delegates, and friends,
It is with profound pride and a deep sense of gratitude that I welcome you to the One-Decade National Counseling Month (NATCOM), a milestone celebration marking ten remarkable years of dedication, growth, and transformative impact in the counseling profession and mental health advocacy across our nation and region.
This year is not merely an anniversary. It is a powerful testament to what we can achieve when we walk together. Underpinned by the sacred values of Unity, Solidarity, Reflection of Hope, and Celebration of Success, we gather to honor the work behind us and to courageously envision the future ahead. Our theme, Flourishing at Work, Thriving in Life, captures the very essence of why we exist as counselors, educators, and changemakers. It reminds us that professional excellence and personal well-being are not separate paths, but one journey. This historic decade-long celebration is the fruit of collaboration, a beautiful symphony of effort led by PERKAMA International together with our active partners, affiliates, and champions of mental health. To every partner who has stood with us through challenges and triumphs: thank you. This is your success as much as it is ours.
Over the three days, we have curated five major events, each designed to inspire, connect, and elevate: The Regional Counseling Conference where evidence meets practice across borders. The Counseling Innovation (ICONNOUVAS), a space for fresh ideas and creative breakthroughs. The ASEAN Counseling Network (ACON) Summit to strengthening regional solidarity and professional bonds. The National Young Counseling Summit because the future of our profession is bright, bold, and in good hands. The Gala Dinner, a night of elegance, fellowship, and joyful celebration of our shared journey.
We deliberately align this gathering with World Mental Health Day (October 10), observed globally as a call to action and awareness. There is no better time to reaffirm that mental health is not a luxury, it is a fundamental human right, and counseling is its compassionate cornerstone.
Dear friends, as we reflect on one decade of NATCOM, let us not only look back with pride but move forward with purpose. Let these three days be a wellspring of connection, learning, and renewed hope. May we leave not just inspired, but equipped to help others flourish at work, thrive in life, and live with dignity and joy.
Welcome to NATCOMs 10th year. Welcome home.
Senior Professor Dr Mansor Abu Talib (FASc)