Where Minds Meet: Advancing Psychology and Counselling Across the Asia-Pacific – APCPC 2026 Highlights

The Asia Pacific Conference on Psychology and Counselling 2026 (APCPC 2026) concluded successfully, marking a significant milestone in bringing together academics, researchers, practitioners, industry partners, policymakers, and students from across the region. The conference brought together 150 participants representing 15 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, the Philippines, China, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Uganda, Lithuania, and Mauritius; and served as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, research dissemination, and the cultivation of meaningful collaborations in the fields of psychology and counselling.

The conference was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including YBrs. Dr. Haji Saiful Azlan bin Haji Sharif, Pahang State Health Director, and Dr. Nurashikin Binti Ibrahim, Director of the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health (NCEMH), Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH); Prof. Dr. Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University; and Prof. Dr. Rozainee Khairudin, Chair of the Asia Pacific Conference on Psychology and Counselling 2026. The event also welcomed renowned keynote speakers, distinguished delegates, academics, industry partners, and students, whose active participation contributed to the conference’s success and the vibrant exchange of ideas.

In her dual role as Conference Chair and Head of the Department of Psychology, Prof. Dr. Rozainee Khairudin delivered the welcoming address, setting the tone for the conference by emphasising the importance of collaboration, innovation, and research excellence in addressing emerging challenges in psychology and counselling. Her inspiring remarks encouraged meaningful dialogue and reinforced the collective commitment to advancing mental health research, education, and professional practice across the region.

Prof. Dr. Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan extended his heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Neerushah Subarimaniam and the team from the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences for successfully leading and executing APCPC 2026. He commended the seamless organisation of the conference and the strong academic impact it achieved. He further noted that the event reflected outstanding coordination, dedication, and leadership in bringing together a vibrant and meaningful regional platform for psychology and counselling.

Throughout the conference, participants engaged in thought-provoking keynote sessions, oral and poster presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities that showcased innovative research, evidence-based practices, and emerging perspectives. APCPC 2026 reaffirmed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing mental health awareness, strengthening professional practice, and driving research excellence across the Asia-Pacific region.

The Organising Committee extends its heartfelt appreciation to all committee members, volunteers, speakers, presenters, sponsors, and participants whose dedication, professionalism, and collaborative spirit contributed to the seamless execution and overall success of APCPC 2026. Their collective efforts ensured an enriching and memorable experience for all attendees. Beyond serving as a platform for scholarly exchange, APCPC 2026 celebrated the passion, creativity, and commitment of the psychology and counselling community. The conference not only strengthened regional networks but also inspired new ideas, fostered meaningful partnerships, and laid the foundation for future collaborations that will continue to advance psychology, counselling, and mental health across the Asia-Pacific region.