PENANG will once again host Meditate 21, a 21-day journey dedicated to mindfulness, compassion, and inner calm, from Sept 1 to 21, 2025, culminating on the International Day of Peace.
The programme, supported by the Penang government, will feature 21 meditation sessions with the participation of 12 organisations, comprising both faith communities and professional practitioners.
Participants will be introduced to a wide range of practices, from traditional and religious-based meditation to contemporary approaches, offering them the chance to discover methods that resonate best with their personal journey.
State Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said Meditate 21 is more than just a wellness programme; it is a movement that strengthens the social fabric of harmony and trust.
“Penang has always been a living example of harmony in diversity. People of different religions, beliefs, and traditions have coexisted peacefully, shaping a society that is both culturally rich and resilient,” Lim said during the press conference at Penang Harmony Centre in Jalan Scotland today.
She added that meditation should be seen not only as a personal practice, but also as a social one.
“When individuals cultivate calmness, empathy, and resilience through meditation, the positive effects ripple outward. Families communicate with greater patience, communities grow more compassionate, and societies learn to embrace diversity with less conflict,” she said.
Lim also pointed out that all major faiths in Penang practice forms of meditation, from Buddhism’s pursuit of enlightenment, Taoism’s introspection, and energy balance, to Islam’s Tafakkur, the act of reflection and appreciation of creation.
Highlighting the relevance of meditation in today’s fast-paced world, she said it offers individuals the chance to pause, breathe, and rediscover balance in the midst of stress and uncertainty.
This year’s Meditate 21 is once again supported by VitaHealth, which first partnered with organiser Harmonico in 2024.
“Last year’s collaboration exceeded expectations with higher-than-anticipated participation. We are delighted to continue this partnership in 2025, as we share the same vision of caring for health holistically, body, mind, and spirit,” Lim said.
Participants will not only gain from meaningful meditation sessions but also benefit from VitaHealth’s trusted health products, enriching their journey toward overall wellness.
Lim extended an open invitation to all Penangites, regardless of age, background, or belief, to join the 21-day event.
“Meditation is more than just a few moments of silence. It is a way to nurture harmony within ourselves, and in turn, extend that harmony to our families, communities, and our nation.
“Together, let us make Meditate 21 not only a programme, but a celebration of peace, harmony, and holistic well-being,” she added.
Also present was Harmonico general manager Paul Au and Vita Life Sciences chief executive officer (Malaysia and Singapore) Dr KS Beh.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En