Two suicide cases a day have been recorded on average nationwide between 2019 and May this year, according to police.
In a statement today, Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Abd Jalil Hassan said that this average was recorded based on the 609 suicide incidents in 2019, 631 cases recorded last year, and 468 cases between January and May this year.
“On average, two suicide cases take place daily from 2019 until May.
“Throughout the period, the breakdown according to gender is 281 men and 1,427 women reported to have committed suicide.
“Of the victims involved, 872 were aged between 15 and 18, and 668 victims aged between 19 and 40,” he said.
Abd Jalil revealed that Johor recorded the highest cases at 101 for 2019 and last year, while Selangor recorded the highest cases at 117 between January and May this year.
He noted that the main cause for suicide was family problems, as well as emotional and financial pressure.
“Based on the trend of suicide incidents, all responsible parties, especially society, need to play a role in curbing this problem.
“Individuals who face problems in finance, health, emotional pressure, depression, family problems, among others, need to be given help as well as support from family and nearby friends.
“The police urge individuals faced with such problems and pressure to get help as well as support from family members, friends and also those who provide counselling service,” he advised.
On June 29, Health Ministry director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah urged the public to be more vigilant and care for family members and those around them by identifying early symptoms of depression that can contribute to suicidal behaviour.
The next day (June 30), the Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) expressed alarm at the rise of suicides and attempted suicides during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The commission had called for the government to revive the establishment of the National Suicide Registry to provide public access to data on suicides in the country.
If you are feeling depressed or suicidal, or know someone who is, please call the following hotlines:
Agape Counselling Centre Malaysia
Hotline: 03-77855955 or 7781 0800
The Befrienders
Hotline: 03-79568144 or 03-79568145
Life Line Association Malaysia
Hotline: 03-42657995
- Mkini
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