Shufiyan Shukur
In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxieties often take center stage, the pursuit of joy and laughter has become increasingly essential.
One innovative approach to harnessing this potential is Laughter Yoga, a unique exercise regimen that combines the merriment of laughter with the tranquility of yoga breathing techniques.
At the forefront of this movement in Johor Bahru is Fung Lee Jean, affectionately known as Lee Jean, a dedicated advocate for happiness and the founder of the Happy and Joyous Club.
Lee Jean’s inspiring journey
Lee Jean’s remarkable journey begins with a successful career as a pharmacist, overseeing a chain of stores—a role laden with its fair share of stress. However, towards the culmination of her career, she stumbled upon the transformative effects of Laughter Yoga.
“Managing a store was stressful enough, let alone a chain!” Lee Jean exclaims. Her quest led her to Melbourne, where she underwent training under the guidance of Dr. Madan Kataria, the visionary behind Laughter Yoga. She returned to Johor Bahru, armed with newfound knowledge and an unwavering passion.
Lee Jean laid the foundation for the Johor Bahru Happy and Joyous Club, with a vision to create a haven for Laughter Yoga and promote a holistic and joyous lifestyle. Over 15 years, the Club has evolved, encompassing activities like clowning and the Joyous Community Drum Circle, catering to members of all ages.
Although the majority of members are senior citizens, Lee Jean envisions a future where younger generations also embrace this path to joy.
Spreading laughter far and wide
As the shadow of the pandemic recedes, the Club has resumed its in-person activities, hosting weekly laughter sessions in residential parks throughout Johor Bahru. Beyond the parks, their benevolent outreach extends to hospitals and collaborations with various NGOs and charities.
Lee Jean proudly reflects on their adaptability during the pandemic, conducting nearly a thousand online Laughter Yoga sessions.With a nominal RM100 lifetime membership fee, the Club opens its doors to everyone, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
The Club’s commitment to the community transcends laughter sessions. They visit hospitals, offering patients a dose of cheer through Laughter Yoga, yoga, clowning, and drum circle performances.
While the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted collaborations with government bodies, the Club aspires to rekindle these partnerships. Lee Jean underscores the importance of inclusivity, hoping to see more men and youngsters join their ranks to spread happiness across all demographics.
As a testament to the Club’s tireless efforts in bringing joy to the residents of bustling Johor Bahru, the Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards honored the Johor Bahru Happy and Joyous Club with the Social Innovator Award in 2014. In 2016, Lee Jean received an award in the Individual Category for Human Empowerment.
Looking ahead, the Johor Bahru Happy and Joyous Club envisions a broader impact on the well-being of citizens across the country. Lee Jean’s infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication have already attracted participants from around the globe.
With plans for workshops and training sessions on the horizon, the Club’s mission to promote a happy, joyous lifestyle seems poised for even greater success. As Lee Jean so aptly puts it, “Embrace a happy, joyous lifestyle, prioritize holistic well-being, and always keep smiling and laughing!”
For more information on their activities, visit their Facebook page, and remember, a session is just around the corner for you in Johor Bahru.
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