KABONG: Almost one in six children in Malaysia are struggling with emotional and psychological stress, a situation that must not be underestimated, said Deputy Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam.
He cited findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), which revealed that depression among adults doubled from 2.3 per cent in 2019 to 4.6 per cent in 2023.
Among children aged 5 to 15, the prevalence rose sharply from 7.9 per cent to 12.6 per cent.
“This means nearly one in six of our children are facing emotional and psychological challenges that cannot be taken lightly,” he said when closing the Mental Health Advocacy and Awareness Programme for Community Leaders, Komuniti Minda Sejahtera (K-MINDSET) Betong Division 2025 here recently.
Razi said that the Komuniti Minda Sejahtera initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Health last year, was introduced to empower local leaders, such as longhouse chiefs, village heads and penghulus, to safeguard mental health within their communities.
He expressed pride that Betong Division was chosen as one of three divisions in Sarawak to implement the programme this year, calling it “not just lectures or training, but a long-term investment in holistic community health – economic, physical, mental and emotional”.
The programme’s modules equip leaders with knowledge and practical skills to detect early signs of mental stress, depression and anxiety, and to respond empathetically and effectively.
Razi, who is also Saribas Assemblyman, highlighted that the Sarawak Government through the Social Development Council (MPS) has also introduced Separuh Jalan Pulang (Halfway Home), a programme to rehabilitate mentally homeless individuals and reintegrate them as productive members of society.
“In many cases, community leaders are the first point of contact when problems arise.
“Their moral and emotional support can make the difference between life and suffering. We must ensure no one in our communities feels alone,” he said.
