KOTA KINABALU – Sabah PKR chief Datuk Christina Liew today proposed the set up of a Covid-19 suicide prevention hotline number, in the wake of three suicide incidents in the state capital this month, including one involving a 15-year-old girl in Sembulan yesterday.
“This serves as a strong signal to the relevant authorities that something is not right and desperate individuals need help urgently. The current situation is worrying as Wednesday's suicide attempt is the third case.
“The first two incidents this month were tragic,” said the Api-Api Assemblyman, tonight.
The Tawau MP said a venue for the distressed to seek help, support, advice and financial help must be established in view of the effects of the pandemic.
"The proposed life-saving hotline would complement the Mental Health Psychosocial Service (MHPSS) initiated by the State Health Department last month (October).”
"A Covid-19 suicide prevention campaign would raise awareness that life is worth living and taking one's own life is not a shortcut to free oneself of personal woes.”
“More importantly, suicide is preventable if help is readily available to those with suicidal tendencies.”
“They need to know there are compassionate people in society who listen and care about their well-being, and will help them out, so they don't have to resort to ending their lives," said Liew, adding that parents and guardians monitor their children’s movement during these challenging times.
She said all parties must work together to prevent a recurrence of suicide attempts by young Sabahans, saying skills on how to recognise early warnings of suicidal tendencies must be inculcated among guardians.
Liew encouraged the public to avail themselves of the free counselling services offered by two NGOs. The Befrienders' Free Confidential Emotional Helpline (016-8036945) is available daily from 7pm to 10pm, while Kawan Bah's Helpline (012-7753020) is available round the clock daily. - The Vibes, November 26, 2020.
