AMENDMENTS to the Mental Health Act in 2023, aimed at decriminalising suicide attempts, will empower vulnerable individuals to seek help without fear.
In expressing such optimism Women, Childhood, and Community Well-being Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah reiterated the ministry’s commitment to address various social issues, including mental health, to ensure community well-being effectively.
“Based on the National Health and Morbidity Survey conducted by the Ministry of Health from 2012 to 2022, concerning findings have emerged regarding mental health issues,” she said in her winding up speech at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly sitting on Tuesday.
“The survey indicates a prevalence of mental health issues in Sarawak at 35.8 per cent, notably higher among rural Bumiputera aged above 16 years.
“Risky behaviours among teenagers in secondary schools have also been identified as potential precursors to psychological and behavioural dysfunction.
“Furthermore, the survey reveals alarming statistics, with one in eight teenagers experiencing suicidal thoughts, and one in ten attempting suicide, a trend on the rise since 2012. Additionally, one in four teenagers reported feelings of depression, with girls exhibiting a higher tendency compared to boys.”
Fatimah said an increase in the number of secondary school students experiencing loneliness and sleep disturbances due to worry was also noted.
To address these concerns, she said, the ministry is implementing comprehensive measures focusing on capacity building, integrated social support coordination, and targeted interventions to address mental health issues among vulnerable groups.
These initiatives align with SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing.
She noted that robust actions include the completion of the Sarawak Mental Health Study, the organisation of social and community development outreach programmes, mental health awareness forums, advocacy campaigns, and suicide prevention initiatives.
Plans for this year include an extensive outreach programme across all districts and NGO empowerment grants to support mental health advocacy and intervention efforts.
“Moreover, the ministry is establishing halfway homes for the low income recovery community in Kuching, Sibu, and Miri, starting in 2024, to provide support for individuals with mental health illnesses.
“The ministry remains dedicated to offering evidence-based input and shaping social policies to foster positive social impact and community change,” she added.
