CW: mentions of suicide
Suicide attempts have been on the rise in Malaysia, especially when the government imposed a third lockdown in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2019, the Malaysian police force reported 609 suicides, and in 2020, 631. But from January to May 2021, there were already 468 reports of suicides. This would mean that there has been an average of 3 suicide cases per day in 2021 so far. The main causes cited included troubled family relationships, emotional pressure, and financial constraints. Another contributing factor was work/academic stress. Finally, the lockdown led to a majority of the population experiencing loneliness and is ultimately one of the most contributing factors to suicides.
The number of individuals with mental illnesses is constantly rising. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough easily accessible help in the country to assist them. In Malaysia, there are only 410 registered psychiatrists and up to 700 psychologists when there should be a lot more.
The president of the Malaysia Islamic Youth Force (ABIM) started the “White Flag Campaign” in order to encourage individuals to help each other, regardless of racial and religious differences. The campaign consists of hanging up a white flag on your house as a sign you need immediate help. The “White Flag Campaign” mainly assists those in desperate need of food and assistance.
To reduce the number of suicide cases, the Malaysian government should contact the Ministry of Education and suggest the placement of classes that would help to teach how to cope with certain mental illnesses. For example, the classes could explain how to reduce anxiety and stress.
We, The Community’s Truth, hope that Malaysia will see this epidemic end shortly.
Here are a few suicide hotlines in Malaysia for those who are going through a hard time.
Befrienders Malacca: (06) 2842500 or (60) 6-225 0791
Befrienders Kuala Lumpur: (03) 7956 8144 or (03) 7956 8145
Lifeline Association of Malaysia: 011-3157 1495
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