KUCHING: Over 1,000 Sarawakians have sought counselling services at the One-Stop Social Support Centre (PSSS) as part of efforts to address mental health issues and receive advice on emotional and psychological well-being.

Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Dato Sri Nancy Shukri, noted that the increasing number of individuals seeking help at PSSS highlights the urgent need for counselling services, particularly among students.

"During a recent programme in Santubong, many school students from nearby areas came to meet with our counsellors. 

"We observed various issues they were facing, proving that counselling services are essential for all levels of society, including women, adolescents, and students in their formative years. 

"We do not want these issues to escalate into more serious mental health problems, which could potentially lead to tragic outcomes such as suicide," she said at a press conference following the 'Jelajah Kasih Programme' : PSSS and the Back to School donation event on Sunday.

She expressed her gratitude that more Sarawakians are now opting to seek counselling services rather than allowing their problems to persist without resolution.

In addition to helping individuals, PSSS has also started offering counselling services to medical officers and nurses in hospitals, who often face high work pressures.

"In hospitals, nurses and doctors sometimes do not meet with the counsellors provided by the hospitals.

"With professional counsellors available at PSSS, they feel more comfortable discussing their issues and seeking help.

"For instance, within just an hour, 96 hospital staff at Lundu Hospital received counselling, clearly demonstrating the significant need for such services," she explained.

Meanwhile, at the programme’s official launch, Dato Sri Nancy also distributed Back to School aid to 460 students from the Kuching area, as part of efforts to support the educational welfare of young people.

Also present at the event were National Welfare Foundation (YKN) Board of Trustees member, Siti Rafidah Tan Sri Adenan, YKN Chief Executive Officer, Nordina Harun, Deputy Director of the Planning and Management Sector of the District Education Office, Dr. Abang Adam Abang Deli, Kuching District Education Officer, Dr. Majelan Sulong, Deputy District Education Officer, Bolkiah Ali and Political Secretary to the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Mohammed Kamaluddin Mohd Affendie. -UKASnews