KUCHING: A two-day international conference began here Monday to address mental health challenges facing the younger generation.
It is not just about gathering ideas but also a call for collective action by the entire community to support young people who also face such problems, said Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development , Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu.
He said the conference serves as an important platform to highlight research findings and build a deeper understanding of youth mental health issues.
“Mental health is often linked with negative stigma and thought to only affect the elderly. However, nowadays even children as young as five years old have been diagnosed with such problems,” he added.
Rentap made these remarks at the official opening of the Sarawak International Conference on Youth Mental Health held at the Waterfront Hotel.
It was organised by his ministry in collaboration with the Malaysian Institute for Youth Research (IYRES), for the first time here.
“I hope the youth will better understand this issue and be willing to become listeners and supporters to their peers in need. The pressure today is more intense, partly due to the demand to gain attention on social media,” he said.
Held under the theme ‘Driving Inclusivity in Youth Mental Wellness’, the conference emphasises that mental health is a basic right, and support must be inclusive, youth-friendly, and free from discrimination.
The conference brings together diverse voices and experiences from youths across backgrounds, cultures, and locations, in an effort to raise awareness and action toward mental well-being.
“This conference also features a special segment titled ‘Untold Stories’, which highlights real-life accounts from MIASA, the SAPOT Mental Health App, and Dee Hati Foundation showcasing personal experiences from individuals who are rarely given a platform in mainstream discussions,” he explained.
Rentap also cited an initiative by Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, who launched the Youth Mental Health Index with a focus on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
“We should not be afraid to acknowledge if we are facing mental health challenges, because every individual is special and has different needs.
“Use the strengths we have to help, to listen, and to support those who are in need,” he said.
He also pointed out that children as young as five years old have now been diagnosed with anxiety.
“So, don’t just hand over phones to children simply to play with. Encourage them to engage in other activities, because technology and social media come with responsibilities and challenges,” he added.
