Tengku Puteri Iman’s appointment will underline Malaysia’s efforts towards raising awareness on mental health, its treatment and policy challenges.

“I have had the opportunity to work with traditional and non-traditional mental health stakeholders here at home.

“I have seen how the cause has received tremendous support, with fresh ideas and insights on how to break barriers and push the agenda forward in our country.

“I cannot wait to relay Malaysia’s story at the UN.

“Being an International Patron of World Mental Health Day 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic has been such a pleasure. My conversations on mental health have changed for the better,” she said.

“Mental health cannot be championed in a silo. It requires the input of all, and I look forward to a deeply rewarding 2022,” she added.

Malaysian Mental Health Association president Prof Dr Andrew Mohanraj said Tengku Putri Iman’s appointment was not only an achievement for Malaysia but also a recognition of her role as an international advocate for mental health.

“We are confident that the princess will represent the interests of the federation and be the voice of mental health advocacy in the UN.”

Tengku Puteri Iman will be accredited to the UN Economic and Social Council in New York. She will be supported by the federation’s president, secretary-general, president-elect and the regional vice-president for North America and the Caribbean.

The assignment follows her one-year tenure as international patron of World Mental Health Day up to Oct 10, 2021.