A NEW professional body dedicated to advancing holistic wellness and uniting diverse healing disciplines under a single platform was officially launched today.
The International Holistic Healing Arts Association (IHHAA) seeks to bring together practitioners from a wide spectrum of healing modalities, ranging from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and expressive arts to sound therapy, while championing the belief that healing should be accessible to everyone, including marginalised communities and those struggling with the pressures of modern-day life.
IHHAA president Ooi Vivian described the launch as more than the establishment of a new association, saying it represents the beginning of a broader movement.
“A movement that believes healing can be reimagined, experienced and embraced in a way that is more creative, more inclusive and more connected to modern life,” she said during her welcoming address before Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen officiated the launch at Gurney Plaza today.
Also present were Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid, Penang Hospice Society honorary secretary Tan Sri Emeritus Professor Gajaraj Dhanarajan, Gurney Plaza marketing communications manager Reney Khor and assistant marketing communications manager Rachel Kang.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the association, Ooi said many people had asked why she decided to establish IHHAA.
“Throughout my journey as an artist, educator and community organiser, I have had the privilege of meeting thousands of people from different backgrounds and professions.
“Behind many smiles, I discovered something we all have in common which are stress, anxiety, emotional pressure and loneliness.
“In today’s fast-paced world, many people are searching for healing, but not everyone connects with conventional approaches.
“Healing looks different for everyone, and it should never be limited to a single path. That inspired me to create IHHAA,” she said.
Ooi stressed that the association embraces a broader understanding of healing, recognising that wellness can be nurtured through creativity, meaningful relationships and artistic expression.
“Healing can also be expressed through art, music, creativity, aesthetics and meaningful human connections.
“Because healing is not about escaping life. It is about learning to live with greater balance, purpose, creativity and hope.
“We aspire to become an international platform that brings together professionals, practitioners, educators, artists, therapists, musicians, wellness advocates, healthcare professionals and community leaders who share one common purpose which is to improving lives through holistic healing and creative wellness,” she added.
Meanwhile, Gooi said the establishment of IHHAA marks an important milestone in promoting holistic wellness and raising awareness of complementary approaches to health and wellbeing.
“Today, health is no longer measured solely by the absence of illness. It is about living well physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.
“As our society becomes increasingly fast-paced, many people are searching for healthier ways to manage stress, build resilience and maintain balance in their daily lives.
“I would also like to commend IHHAA for bringing together practitioners under one professional association.
“This is an important step towards strengthening public confidence, encouraging collaboration and raising professional standards within the holistic healing industry,” he said.
Gooi expressed confidence that the association would play a meaningful role in fostering greater collaboration among practitioners while promoting a more inclusive and holistic approach to community health and wellness.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat