Thursday, 3 July 2025

Mental health support for men and fathers intensified

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Nancy (standing back row, centre) poses for a photograph with the participants of the ‘Kem Kapten Keluarga’ at Damai Escape Park.

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SANTUBONG: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development is intensifying efforts to advocate for comprehensive mental health support, particularly for men, in recognition of their often-overlooked challenges and responsibilities.

Its Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, said there are increasing pressures faced by fathers today, who must juggle roles as family leaders and societal contributors, often resulting in stress, burnout and emotional strain.

“According to findings from the 2024 Father’s Day Public Opinion Survey, nine out of ten fathers admitted that parenting today is far more challenging than in previous generations.

“The top concerns among fathers are the high cost of living at 84.4 per cent, and the struggle to maintain work-life balance, at 72.9 per cent,” she said.

She said this during a press conference after officiating at the ‘Kem Kapten Keluarga’, a national event celebrating Father’s Day 2025 held at Damai Escape Park today.

Nancy also said in today’s rapidly evolving world, the role of a father extends beyond traditional boundaries, encompassing the responsibilities of being a listener, educator and protector in a broader sense.

The Santubong Member of Parliament further said that in Malaysian society, fathers are pillars not only within households but also within communities, contributing significantly to village leadership, cultural events, and youth mentorship.

“Modern-day fathers face a complex set of expectations to manage careers, family duties, and community obligations, often without adequate support or recognition,” she said.

Acknowledging these challenges, Nancy affirmed her ministry’s commitment to promoting a compassionate and inclusive understanding of fatherhood.

“In terms of support for the community, and as we celebrate Father’s Day, we would like to emphasise the growing importance of community support services through the establishment of our social support centres (PPS) which are designed to provide essential resources and programmes aimed at strengthening family and community bonds.

“The PSS initiatives reflect our commitment to proactive community development focusing on education, emotional support, and practical resources to empower individuals and families,” she said.

Nancy added that to access support services, individuals are encouraged to contact their local PSS centres. 

She also said her ministry continues to enhance its efforts in supporting families and communities across Malaysia, with key initiatives including advocacy programmes, collaborative partnerships, and targeted parenting support aimed at addressing societal challenges.

On a related note, Nancy also said her ministry is deploying counselling buses to targeted areas to allow youths easier access to psychological support.

Citing a recent case in Melaka where a Form Five student allegedly killed his mother and elder brother, she said there is an urgent need for early intervention.

Meanwhile, the three-day, two-night event organised by the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) provided a meaningful space to strengthen the bond between fathers and their children.

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