SANTUBONG: Mental health issues and suicide tendencies in Sarawak are showing alarming trends that require comprehensive and continuous intervention, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
She said that although many cases go unreported, swift actions by rescuers – including the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) – in saving individuals attempting self-harm at various locations across the state highlight the escalating levels of mental distress.
“Sometimes, we hear of people being rescued from bridges or found in suspicious situations at certain locations.
“All these need to be viewed from the perspective of life pressures, economic burdens, family problems, and even loneliness,” she said during a press conference held in conjunction with the Father’s Day ‘Kem Kapten Keluarga‘, a national event celebrating Father’s Day 2025, themed ‘Ayahku Kapten Keluarga’, at Damai Escape Park here today.
However, she emphasised that these issues are not exclusive to Sarawak but are prevalent nationwide.
“In Sarawak, we receive substantial feedback from the local community,” she added.
The ministry, she said, is actively implementing psychosocial intervention programmes, including establishing local social support centres, deploying mobile counselling units, and conducting parenting programmes to engage communities – especially targeting teenagers and parents.
“We know that many are unaware they are experiencing depression. Sometimes, when invited to draw during a counselling session, they realise that they need to talk to someone,” she explained.
She also encouraged individuals to build relationships with trustworthy people to create safe spaces for sharing stories and emotions.
“We need a supportive community,” she said.
When asked to comment on a recent case involving a teenager who murdered his mother and brother, the minister said that the incident reflects the serious impact of mental stress among youth.
The teenager is currently in custody and is being monitored by the Social Welfare Department and the police, and is reportedly showing good behaviour while under care.
In response, she added that mental health awareness programmes are being expanded to schools and communities, including collaborations with agencies such as the National Anti-Drug Agency, Royal Malaysia Police, and National Population and Family Development Board.
The ministry also offers pre-parenthood programmes, post-marriage support, and parenting programmes for couples married for over five years – encouraging them to understand their roles as parents.
“We want parents to know how to be good listeners and be present in their children’s lives – not just relying on gadgets,” she said.
Nancy also urged the people of Sarawak to be more open in seeking assistance through various channels provided, including educational aid, welfare, and psychosocial support offered by the state government.
“In Sarawak, fostering mental wellbeing is increasingly recognised as essential for individuals and communities.
“Experts advocate for the importance of ‘me time’ and ‘we time’ – dedicated moments for personal reflection and social connection – as vital components of mental health.
“It’s crucial for individuals to reach out when facing mental health challenges. Engaging with trusted friends, family, or professionals can provide guidance and support.
“Sarawak’s community-based initiatives are designed to offer assistance and ensure that no one faces mental health issues alone,” she said.
Sarawak offers various resources to support mental health, such as the Mental Health Association of Sarawak, which provides free counselling services in Kuching to support conditions like depression, anxiety and stress.
This also includes Community Social Support Centres, which offer assistance for issues such as domestic violence, mental health challenges, and substance abuse.
They provide a space for individuals to receive support and referrals to appropriate services.
The iSarawakCare platform, an online portal, connects residents with various government aid programmes, including those for healthcare, education, and community support.
It aims to make assistance accessible to all Sarawakians.
