A series of wellness-focused events encouraging Malaysians to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the world is gaining momentum, with more than 900 participants already engaged across five editions of the “OFFLINE 16” movement.
This year’s edition, supported by community groups and health organisations, is set to culminate in a flagship event on Aug 16 2025, at Tropicana Golf & Country Resort, followed by a final resort retreat in October.
Since launching in 2024, the initiative has evolved from a single 16-hour event into a nationwide series of themed gatherings promoting mindfulness and wellness. Events have included a pickleball challenge in Penang, a nature retreat in FRIM and a beach clean-up in Sabah.
The programme aims to address Malaysia’s growing mental health crisis. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS 2023), nearly 1 million adults live with depression while 1 in 6 children face mental health challenges. The movement seeks to counteract the effects of digital dependency, which has been linked to social isolation and anxiety.
The grand finale will feature a range of activities including pickleball games with Olympian Pearly Tan and national player Colin Wong, a sunset walk, jazz music, health screenings, mental wellness games and workshops. Participants will also receive exclusive goodies worth over RM300 and stand a chance to win prizes totalling RM15,000.
Key supporters of the movement include the Malaysian Mental Health Association (MMHA), National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), BIG Pharmacy, Caring Pharmacy, Anytime Fitness, BookXcess, Precious Plastic Malaysia, OGAWA and others.
With 1,200 participants targeted for 2025, the initiative continues to build awareness of practical mental health solutions through real-world engagement.
