KUCHING: The Sarawak government, through the Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development (KPWK), is committed to addressing mental health issues in society.
Its Minister, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah stated that mental health has been identified through the Sarawak Social Development Council (MPS) as one of the 14 main social issues affecting the community.
She highlighted the connection between mental health concerns and other pressing social issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, teenage pregnancy, marriage and divorce, sexual offenses against women and children, bullying, aging, homelessness, sexually transmitted infections, property crimes, identity document issues, cybercrimes, and poverty.
"With the assistance of relevant strategic partners, KPWK is determined to address mental health issues in Sarawak through MPS. This will be achieved by implementing programs and initiatives that utilise appropriate and robust support networks," she said.
She made these remarks while speaking at the Smart Discourse Programme on Mental Health Issues (Suicide Issue) and the Launch of the Sarawak Suicide Reporting Card (SASAR), held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Dato Sri Fatimah emphasised the crucial role of media practitioners in reporting news to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding suicide in society.
She advised the media to report suicide-related news with tact, sensitivity, and responsibility to avoid triggering a 'copycat effect' among at-risk individuals.
Also present were KWPK Permanent Secretary, Datu Felicia Tan Ya Hua, and other invited guests. -UKASnews
