AmBank Group Team Up With Befrienders KL And Hakuhodo Malaysia To Advocate For Mental Health This Merdeka

AmBank Group in collaboration with Befrienders KL and supported by Hakuhodo Malaysia, is proud to announce a new campaign dedicated to mental health this Merdeka and Malaysia Day.

According to the latest National Health & Morbidity Survey, one million Malaysians aged 16 and above suffer from depression as of 2023—an alarming increase that has doubled since 2019, underscoring the urgent need for greater awareness and support.

This campaign emphasises the transformative power of listening, and its positive impact on those facing mental health challenges.

Contrary to common belief, you don’t need to be a professional to make a difference. By simply lending a listening ear to those around us, we can encourage open conversations, foster understanding and create a supportive environment where individuals feel heard and valued.

This simple act can spark a chain reaction, inspiring others to do the same.

And contributing to a better Malaysia.

As part of the campaign, a short film titled ‘Miliki Empati, Malaysia Memahami’ illustrates the positive impact of listening across all walks of life, reinforcing AmBank’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Malaysian community.

Shazman Shahid, AmBank Group’s Head of Group Corporate Communications & Marketing, said, “Mental health is an issue that touches all of us, whether directly or indirectly. Through our short film ‘Miliki Empati, Malaysia Memahami,’ we aim to remind Malaysians of the power of empathy and listening. By fostering a culture of understanding and support, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing mental health challenges, creating a more compassionate Malaysia for everyone.”

Leong Weng Kin, Hakuhodo Malaysia’s Chief Integration Officer, remarked, “Throughout the making of this film, we were deeply inspired by the powerful, true stories shared with us. We learned that it’s not always about finding solutions—sometimes, the simple act of active listening can bring about meaningful change. This film serves as a reminder of that.”

We hope you enjoy the short film and support the movement by casting your vote at the Expert’s Choice Awards!

Vote to support the movement: https://expertschoiceawards.com/vote/

Watch the short film here: