World Suicide Prevention Day event on Sept 9

SIBU: In a world where the significance of mental health is gaining widespread recognition, an upcoming event, with the theme, ‘Creating Hope Through Action’ is scheduled to take place at the ground floor of Wisma Sanyan here on Sept 9 in conjunction with the World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD).
The event’s triennial theme used for WSPD, jointly organised by Community Mental Health Centre (Mentari) Jalan Oya, Sibu Mental Health Association (SMHA) and Sibu District Education Office is due to commence at 10 am till 5 pm on that day.
Chairman of SMHA Kapitan So Teck Kee said the theme is a reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and aims to inspire confidence and is set to create ripples of positive change.
“With its anticipative theme, this event for the public especially from the central region including Kapit, Mukah and Sarikei, aims to not only raise awareness about mental health but also inspire tangible actions that can ignite a sense of hope and resilience within individuals and communities.
“We also wish to introduce most, if not all, of the mental health services available in Sibu to the public,” he told a press conference at the premises of Mentari Jalan Oya here last Monday.
So, who is also the chairman of Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) for Jalan Merdeka, Jalan Oya, Jalan Berjaya, Jalan Muhhibah and Pearl Garden, said the event would be officiated by the Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Michael Tiang Ming Tee.
According to him, mental health problems in Malaysia had been largely unnoticed, partly due to the strong stigma associated with mental illness.
He said the recent pandemic and the movement control order (MCO) is a wakeup call for the whole nation, particularly Sibu.
He said the National Health Morbidity Survey in 2019 had showed that 29 per cent of adult Malaysians had experienced mental health issues, and the same survey last year found 26.9 per cent of adolescents reported to have depressive symptoms.
Over the last decade, he said the survey has also found increasing prevalence of suicidal thoughts.
This distressing finding is now calling people from all walks of life to come together collectively to foster positivity and to create hope through action, he stated.
He pointed out that the theme of the event underlines the idea that taking positive steps can lead to improved mental well-being.
By promoting actions that encourage self-care, community support, and destigmatisation, he stressed that the event aims to instil hope in those struggling with mental health challenges.
“We aim to create mental health awareness among the communities. The event promises to be a unique amalgamation of informative booths, engaging activities, performances, short video competition and informative talks that emphasise the transformative power of collective action.
“As mental health concerns continue to affect millions around the globe, the event seeks to tackle the stigma often associated with mental health and promote open conversations about emotional well-being,” he said.
So said among the highlights of the event will encompass eminent mental health professionals and experts’ talks to shed light on the importance of proactive mental health care, and their insights will guide attendees towards practical strategies to cope with stress, anxiety, and other emotional struggles.
He said there will be health and mental health screening with counsellors, psychologists, doctors, therapists, nurses as well as public NGOs all ready to offer health related services and information for the public.
Besides being saturated with plentiful health educations, there will be numerous prizes and goodies bags to be given away to the public on the day, he said, adding every visitor will also stand a chance for lucky draws.
The event, he said, also includes prize giving for the winners of video competition among the 27 secondary schools in Sibu District, with the theme: Creating hope through action, aimed at creating awareness among the students and public as well as instilling hope in those having mental health issues.
The videos will be uploaded on Mentari Sibu Facebook page for public viewing from Sept 2 onwards.
“The theme is more than just an event; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that each one of us has the power to contribute positively to our mental health landscape. By fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and support, we can create an environment where everyone feels comfortable seeking help and pursuing the path towards emotional wellness.
“This event is a testament to the fact that small steps taken by individuals and communities can lead to significant transformations in the realm of mental health. Together, we can create a future where hope thrives, and mental well-being is a priority for all, ” So added.
Also present were Sibu Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry head Dr Wong Siong Teck, medical officer in-charge of Mentari Jalan Oya Dr John Chieng Kwang Chong and the event’s organising chairperson Dr Wong Jiing.