FPSK Strengthens Nature-Based Therapy Approach Through Bloom Bersama Kami 2026 Program

SERDANG, 16 June – The Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FPSK), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering community well-being through the organization of the Bloom With Us: Rose & Sensory Garden Workshop 2026 Program, an initiative that combines academic expertise, community involvement and a nature-based therapy approach to support the development of children with special needs.

The program, organized by the Putra-PDK Community Rehabilitation Organization (PUTRA-PDK), Department of Rehabilitation Medicine with the support of FPSK UPM, Student Affairs Division, Putra Agricultural Center and strategic partners, highlights the development of sensory gardens as a therapeutic learning medium that integrates elements of sensory stimulation, education and interaction with nature. This approach is believed to be able to support children's cognitive, motor, emotional and social development in a more conducive and inclusive environment.

The Dean of FPSK UPM, Prof. Dr. Normala Ibrahim, said the program reflects the faculty's commitment in translating academic expertise to the benefit of society through a holistic and high-impact approach.

He said that the involvement of academics, health professionals, industry and the community in this program proves that strategic collaboration can produce initiatives that directly benefit those in need, especially children with special needs and their families.

The ceremony was officiated by UPM Vice-Chancellor, Dato' Prof. Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd. Sadullah, who also emphasized the university's commitment in ensuring that the Disabled (OKU) continue to be given the opportunity to develop their potential and enjoy a better quality of life through an inclusive educational approach and intervention.

Head of Program, Dr. Siti Noraini Asmuri, who is also the Chairman of PUTRA-PDK UPM, said the development of the sensory garden through the program will be an interactive learning space that provides a learning experience based on multi-sensory stimulation.

"Children have the opportunity to explore learning through colors, plant textures, flower and herb aromas as well as various tactile elements in a more relaxed atmosphere and close to nature. This approach not only enhances the learning experience, but also helps build self-confidence, encourages social interaction and supports their overall development," she said.

She added that this program also serves as a platform for knowledge transfer to the community by introducing the concept of horticultural therapy and the use of sensory gardens as one of the support approaches in early intervention and rehabilitation of children with special needs.

Among the main contents of the program were a sharing session on rose planting techniques conducted by UPM Board of Directors Member, Dr. Noraishah Mydin Abdul Aziz, in addition to activities to build sensory gardens and interactive sessions with PUTRA-PDK trainees involving volunteers, academic staff, students and industry partners.

Also present was the Director of the Department of Disability Development, Department of Social Welfare Malaysia, Pathmanathan A/L R. Nalasamy.

The organization of this program reflects FPSK's continued commitment in strengthening the university's role as an institution that not only excels in education and research, but also actively contributes to the well-being of society through evidence-based initiatives, social inclusion and strategic collaboration with various parties.

By: Dr. Siti Noraini Asmuri

Date of Input: 30/06/2026 | Updated: 30/06/2026 | nadia_rahman