For generations, however, having honest discussions about the wellbeing of one’s mind was avoided, due to cultural norms and stigmas.
While there is increased awareness of the importance of mental health today, many still have damaging misconceptions about the subject, or refuse to seek help despite desperately needing it.
Community project Pasar Besties aims to tackle these problems head on, by serving as a safe space for people to address mental health issues.
Organised by local beauty and lifestyle community The Butterfly Project, this live bazaar aims to be a holistic experience promoting joy and well-being for all attendees.
“Our hope for Pasar Besties is to create a safe and uplifting environment where attendees can feel heard, supported, and empowered. We aim to foster meaningful connections, provide valuable resources, and inspire individuals to prioritise their mental well-being,” The Butterfly Project founder Tammy Lim told FMT Lifestyle.
Pasar Besties will also be collaborating with various local brands to raise awareness on mental health. According to Lim, it will feature 15 brands, complimentary specially curated workshops, and over 30 vendors selling home-made and pre-loved items.
Participating brands are The Golden Duck, Fourteen Studio, Roots Malaysia, AvantGarde Blooms, Organic Lab, Sheeness, Minc.Care, Royal Bath & Co, Breeze For You, Kerlip, Kedai Mom, Absolute Yana, imsycraft, Pressurini and Emotion Pod x Becky Kux.
“By spreading awareness, we can create a more empathetic and compassionate society. As the founder of The Butterfly Project, I believe we can lend our voices collectively to raise awareness for mental health – we believe in taking the first step,” said Lim.
“It’s a win-win situation for both the local community and businesses. Our event also promotes thrifting and reduces waste. The vendors offering pre-loved items are members of our community, empowering them to become entrepreneurs.”
One of the event’s biggest highlights is The Golden Duck Supermart Fest, a snack launch where visitors can play games and win exclusive prizes.
There are also contests to win giveaways by Jurlique Treatments and Organic Lab’s Beauty Bags. Those stressed out by the weight of the world on their shoulders can put things right with Pressurini Spa’s 10-minute shoulder massage, offered at RM5.
Pasar Besties will also be giving visitors opportunities to learn new skills and improve themselves. Minc.Care and Emotion Pod x Becky Kux will be holding mental health care workshops, while Roots Malaysia will enlighten visitors at their Self Care and Essential Oils Workshops 101.
Participants can also savour sweet sensations at the Honey Tasting Workshop by Thousand O’Bee, or get crafty at Kerlip KL’s DIY Friendship Bracelet workshops.
Lim said The Butterfly Project would assess the possibility of having more events like this in future, depending on the feedback and impact from Pasar Besties.
“Our priority is always to address the needs of our community and contribute positively to mental wellness initiatives in Malaysia. I hope you can join us at this bazaar, be happy and find ways to improve your mental health – and most importantly, know that you are not alone in this battle,” Lim concluded.
Learn more about The Butterfly Project on their website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Pasar Besties Bazaar
Time and Date: May 18 & 19 (11am-6pm)
Venue: The School, Jaya One, No 72A, Jalan Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz, Seksyen 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor