Suicide rates in Malaysia have seen a drastic increase, with 4,440 Malaysians taking their own lives since 2019, as reported by the country’s deputy prime minister. Men in Malaysia were four times more likely to die by suicide than women, with a sharp rise in cases since 2021. The statistics revealed a distressing trend with 609 cases in 2019, escalating to 1,087 cases in the following year. The top demographic affected were men, particularly in the Chinese community.
Malaysia’s National Mental Health Crisis Line, HEAL Line 15555, received over 48,900 calls from October 2022 to June this year, showing a dire need for early social policy change. The deputy prime minister emphasized the importance of support for those struggling with suicidal thoughts through helplines such as Hong Kong’s 18111 or the US-based 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, reach out for help.
Click here for a list of international helplines.