In this modern era, mental health is increasingly important and should be taken seriously.
On Tuesday (8 February), a 28-year-old man in Shah Alam had attempted to end his own life after his girlfriend did not pick up his call. He tried jumping off from the 18th floor of an apartment building in Bukit Jelutong.
According to Kosmo, the Head of Selangor’s Fire & Rescue Department, Norazam Khamis said they received a distress call of the incident at about 3.30 a.m. and reached the scene 5 minutes later.
He said that when the rescuers were there, the man was already standing on the rooftop of the apartment and was about to take the plunge.
The firefighters then immediately install an air cushion on the ground as precautionary measures. Fortunately, they managed to convince him and talk him out of jumping.
Meanwhile, this is not his first attempt at suicide. According to his sister and divorced wife, he tried to take away his life in the same way in Penang for family matters following a divorce.
The man had then been handed over to the police for further action.
Rising suicides rates a global public health issue
Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic started, Malaysia had been recording an increase in suicide rates.
Meanwhile, the authorities had proposed several measures to address this issue, among which were setting up a national suicide registry.
In addition, the federal government had also supported plans to Section 309 of the Penal Code to decriminalise suicide attempts. These individuals will then be given necessary therapy and support to help them recover.
As a reminder to all, reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness. If you or anyone you know is facing severe stress or having negative thoughts, reach out to these Malaysian hotlines for help!
- Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (MHPSS): 03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392
- Talian Kasih: 15999, or WhatsApp 019-261 5999
- Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre: WhatsApp 0111-959 8214
- Befrienders Kuala Lumpur: 03-762 72929
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