Police launches mental wellness programme

KUCHING: All officers and staff at the district police headquarters (IPD) are urged to take a moment to reset, refresh their minds, and rethink their approach when confronting various challenges, both professional and personal.

Kuching police chief ACP Ahsmon Bajah said this when launching the Chill and Relax (CnR) programme at the IPD today (May 7).

He said that the programme, which incorporates stress-relief exercises, deep breathing techniques, and clapping therapy, represents a vital component in ensuring the mental and physical well-being of police officers.

“Lately, we have faced numerous challenges such as heightened responsibilities, increased commitments, and the weight of community expectations for exemplary service delivery.

“Over the past few years, some of our personnel have been investigated in various cases, and from there, we identified that they faced pressure in terms of work and family.

“Today, we launch this CnR for us to reset, refresh, and rethink our approaches,” he said, adding that such a programme is recognised by psychology and health experts.

He shared that in the Kuching district, the police have a big responsibility in managing programmes, maintaining security, and combatting crimes.

With that, Ahsmon urged all officers and staff at Kuching IPD to take proactive steps in managing stress and overcoming operational hurdles.

“All heads of units, departments, and divisions are encouraged to convene their teams for brief five to 15-minute sessions to engage in these rejuvenating exercises during after-work hours.

“This pause allows for reflection and strategising, ultimately leading to enhanced service delivery and a deeper understanding of the communities we serve,” he said.

A total of 62 senior and rank-and-file police officers participated in the first CnR programme held at Kuching IPD’s assembly ground.