Kota Kinabalu: Luyang Assemblyman Phoong Jin Zhe urged the Federal Government to allocate more resources to assist mental health development in Sabah.
The Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister also urged those experiencing symptoms related to mental health to seek professional consultation.
“Mental health is a pressing concern that demands immediate attention. Early intervention is key, and no one should suffer in silence,” he said.
Phoong, in close partnership with MY Psychology Kota Kinabalu, has been actively raising awareness about mental health issues.
“Together, we have organised numerous campaigns and talks at Luyang Community Centre to dispel myths, reduce stigma, and provide crucial information on mental health support.
“In navigating the demanding challenges of supporting a family member with mental health concerns, the journey can be exhausting, potentially leading to burnout.
“However, perseverance is key – do not lose hope, as invaluable assistance and support are readily accessible,” said Phoong,
He cited 2019 statistics from Befrienders which revealed that over 30,000 individuals reaching out to their 24-hour hotline expressed suicidal thoughts, with one-third of them belonging to the vulnerable age group of 15-29 years old.
Additionally, the Health Ministry reported that a staggering 424,000 children in Malaysia are grappling with mental health problems.
The 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey highlighted that one in four Malaysian teenagers experienced depression, one in eight had suicidal thoughts, and one in ten had attempted suicide.
“It is evident that we are facing a mental health crisis, especially among our youth. We must join hands as a community to address this issue compassionately and comprehensively
“Let us stand together to create a safe environment where individuals struggling with mental health challenges can find the support they need. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to those who need it most,” he said.
Recently, Phoong alongside psychiatrists Dr Wah Kheng Yee, Dr. Simon, and clinical psychologist Chong from MY Psychology KK visited Faith Caring Home to shed light on the critical issue of mental health in our community.
“I want to highlight the vital work being done at Faith Caring Home, a non-governmental charity organisation looking after more than 50 patients, providing the care and support they need to overcome their mental health challenges,” he said.
