THE country has recorded a worrying rise in suicide cases, with 1,114 incidents reported so far in 2024, according to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). This figure surpasses the 1,087 cases recorded in 2023 and 981 in 2022.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni called for a united response to address the crisis, urging stakeholders across all sectors to strengthen early intervention and preventive strategies.
"Every life lost leaves a profound impact. The World Health Organization estimates that for every suicide, around 135 close contacts are affected emotionally, socially, and economically," he said during the launch of the World Suicide Prevention Day 2025 event at Kompleks Sultan Abdul Halim.
This year’s theme, *"Changing Perceptions, Building Hope"*, centres on shifting public attitudes toward suicidal behaviour, reducing stigma, and cultivating empathy for those battling mental health issues.
Lukanisman also announced that Malaysia’s move to decriminalise attempted suicide is now legally in force. The Penal Code (Amendment) (No. 2) 2023, the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) (No. 2) 2023, and the Mental Health Act (Amendment) 2023 came into effect on 10 September 2025.
In a further step, the Ministry of Health (MOH) is developing Postvention Guidelines, expected to be completed in early 2026. These will provide bereavement support, psychoeducation, and crisis counselling for affected families and communities.
“The MOH is also working closely with several ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Education through the Healthy Mind Programme, the Ministry of Youth and Sports via IYRES, and the Ministry of Communications with the CMCF to develop Suicide Content Guidelines to ensure safer, more ethical media reporting,” he said.
He emphasised that suicide is not merely a personal issue, but a societal one.
“Suicide can be prevented. With collective support and empathy, we can change perceptions and build hope for those who are struggling,” Lukanisman said. - September 11, 2025
