In celebration of World Mental Health Day, Baiduri Bank, through its Employee Wellness Initiative (EWI), partnered with the British High Commission in Brunei Darussalam to host a collaborative event focused on mental health awareness and workplace well-being. The event took place on 13 October 2024, at the South Lawn of Baiduri Bank Headquarters.

The event was graced by Deputy British High Commissioner Catherine Pochkhanavala-Cleeve, alongside U.S. Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn R. McClelland, and Manuel Bulens, Deputy CEO of Consumer Banking at Baiduri Bank.

In his opening remarks, Manuel Bulens said, “Through our Employee Wellness Initiative (EWI), Baiduri Bank has made significant strides in fostering mental well-being among our employees. Events like this play a crucial role in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, reinforcing the idea that it is a shared responsibility, not just an individual one.”

In line with this year’s theme, "Mental Health in the Workplace," Baiduri Bank has introduced a range of innovative initiatives as part of its Employee Wellness Initiative, aimed at cultivating a culture of holistic well-being within the organisation. These initiatives include ‘Feel Good Fridays,’ a regular series of in-house wellness activities, and the ‘BN on the Move’ corporate challenge, which has achieved an impressive total of 60 million steps. Additionally, the Bank hosts its annual Workplace Wellness Forum and regularly organises activities that prioritise mental, physical, spiritual, and financial health—these key pillars serve as the foundation of the Employee Wellness Initiative. This commitment also aligns with Wawasan Brunei 2035’s goal of promoting a high quality of life through healthy lifestyles, underscoring the importance of fostering a healthier and more productive workforce.

Attendees of the event participated in a unique art therapy session facilitated by the ASEAN Youth Advocates Network (AYAN), providing a creative platform to explore emotions and mental well-being through art.

Deputy British High Commissioner Catherine Pochkhanavala-Cleeve emphasised the importance of mental health in the workplace, stating, “With five of our staff now certified as Mental Health First Aiders, we are committed to fostering a supportive environment. Through our collaboration with Baiduri Bank on events like this, we aim to promote open conversations about mental health and provide essential tools for individuals to manage their well-being, ultimately contributing to healthier and more productive communities.”

To find out more about Baiduri Bank, visit www.baiduri.com, follow the Bank’s social media accounts or call its 24-hour Customer Helpline at 244 9666.