It is often said that laughter is the best medicine, but how true is this? If we were to actively seek out moments to laugh, not only does our emotional health improve, but our relationships are also strengthened, making us feel happier. 

In fact, it seems that we could all do with a little bit more of cheering up. According to the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network’s (SDSN) World Happiness Report 2021, Malaysia ranked as the 81st happiest country in the world from a total of 149 nations.

That is why Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (HWUM) in conjunction with the United Nations’ International Day of Happiness on March 20, will be hosting a major online event called ‘The Global Happiness Forum 2022’ on March 19, focusing on the theme, ‘The Importance of Laughter’. 

This year’s Forum will feature an amazing line-up of hosts and speakers including renowned Malaysian comedian Harith Iskander; UK academician and comedian Sophie Scott; as well as Malaysian humanitarian activist and volunteer Kuan Chee Heng, more popularly known as ‘Uncle Kentang’, who will speak on the science of laughter and share tips to empower the audience to lead a happier and more fulfilling life.

Professor Deborah Hall, HWUM’s Professor of Positive Psychology, School of Social Sciences, said: “The past few years have been challenging for us all, both personally and professionally.” 

“The International Day of Happiness encourages us all to pause and reflect on what we can be grateful for in our lives. It also reminds us to try experiencing some positive energy every day,” she added.

Meanwhile, student representative Fardeen Abdol Ghani, who is also President of HWUM's Psychology Society, said: "The Global Happiness Forum is part of our ‘A Happier U’ initiative that reminds us of how our physical and mental well-being are connected, and of the importance of taking care of both aspects, especially during challenging times."

The Global Happiness Forum 2022 aims to inspire school and university students, parents, educators, and members of the public to try their hands at something new to lead a happier lifestyle. It is also part of HWUM’s wider efforts to promote positive mental health and resilience.

The upcoming International Day of Happiness is important to HWUM as it is an opportunity to celebrate its institutional values which are to; BELONG, INSPIRE, COLLABORATE, and CELEBRATE. 

Based upon these values, HWUM’s educators and professional staff are successfully building a community that promotes a more positive sense of mental health, among its students.

Are you ready to laugh and lead a happier lifestyle? Join HWUM in keeping up with positivity this International Day of Happiness! Register now for HWUM’s Global Happiness Forum on March 19 from 4pm to 6pm: https://intake.hw.edu.my/happiness/

For more information on HWUM, visit https://www.hw.ac.uk/malaysia/index.htm