KUCHING: Parents must take greater responsibility in addressing their children’s mental health instead of placing the burden solely on schools and counsellors, says Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Alluding to recent remarks by National Mental Health Promotion Advisory Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye on the worsening mental health among children in Malaysia, Nancy agreed that the issue requires urgent, coordinated community action.
“Parents need to be more involved, not just rely on teachers or school counsellors. But today, many parents are busy with work, and this makes it difficult. That’s where the government comes in to support and coordinate efforts with all parties.
“We can’t expect teachers alone to promote good values and mental wellness. Parents, Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBG), community leaders and grassroots organisations must all play a role,” she said.
She said this when met at the Kuching District Education Department’s Excellent Service Awards Ceremony, here today (Jul 13).
Nancy said her ministry supports youth and family mental health through initiatives such as KafeTEEN, which engages teenagers in life skills and emotional resilience, and structured parenting programmes.
She also urged the public to take advantage of the 15999 helpline, which connects individuals to trained counsellors for emotional support and guidance.
“These counsellors are professionally trained and can direct people to the help they need, particularly when dealing with mental distress, not only among children but across society,” she said.
Nancy added that the ministry’s Social Support Centres have grown in popularity, with both government bodies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) requesting outreach services, including mobile counselling units, to raise awareness at the grassroots level.
“But we can help one another by speaking up, by being friends, by listening.Sometimes people do not want to talk to a friend, they just need someone to listen. That is why we encourage the public to reach out to our centres,” she said.
For those who require further treatment, she said the ministry will work with families and professionals to arrange the necessary care.
