Malaysians Urged To Play Active Role In Suicide Prevention

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 28 (Bernama) -- Malaysians have been urged to take an active role in suicide prevention, especially among family members, friends, colleagues, and students, by recognising early warning signs and providing timely support.

Speaking at the Suicide Prevention Conference 2025 yesterday, Befrienders Kuala Lumpur patron Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said suicide should not be viewed as a crime, but rather as a sign of emotional pain and a desperate plea for help.

He also emphasised the importance of removing the stigma associated with suicide and mental illness, noting that stigma continues to silence individuals and prevent them from seeking help.

“Suicide is not a crime, it is a sign of overwhelming emotional pain, a cry for help. To punish someone for that pain is to add to their suffering and silence their voice. Stigma makes people feel isolated, misunderstood and judged,” he said. 

Lee also highlighted the recent decriminalisation of suicide in Malaysia, which was gazetted on Sept 10 - coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day, as a significant milestone in the country’s mental health journey.

“This milestone is more than just a legal change, it is a promise that when someone struggles, we will not turn away, we will not condemn. Instead, we will say, ‘You deserve empathy, you deserve support, and most of all, you deserve a chance to heal,’” he said.

Lee added that the decriminalisation of suicide marks an important shift in how society responds to mental health struggles, replacing shame and fear with compassion, care and access to appropriate treatment.

According to data from the Royal Malaysia Police, suicide cases increased by 79 per cent, from 609 cases in 2019 to 1,087 cases in 2023.

The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 also revealed that one million Malaysians aged 16 and above were experiencing depression, with half of them reporting suicidal thoughts or self-harm.

Additionally, one in six children was found to be facing mental health issues, a two-fold increase since 2019.

“Behind every number is a face, a story, and a life that matters...and for each life lost to suicide, many more are left grieving, wondering if something could have been done differently,” Lee added.

Lee emphasised that suicide prevention efforts should focus not just on data or strategy but on fostering resilience, restoring hope and valuing every human life.

-- BERNAMA