65% of suicide cases in M’sia involve men
December 22, 2015Ministry of Home Affairs says a total of 130 cases recorded as at October 2015 stemming from depression, financial problems as well as relationship and family issues.
KUALA LUMPUR: About 65 per cent of the total suicide and suicide attempt cases among locals and foreigners in the country involved men, the Dewan Negara was told today.
Deputy Home Affairs Minister, Tuan Masir Anak Kujat said that as of October this year, a total of 130 cases was recorded, 84 of which involved men and 46 women.
“The figure included 34 Malays, 42 Indians, 47 Chinese and the rest (seven) were of other races and ethnicities,” he said.
He was responding to a question from Senator S Bagiam Ayem Perumal who wanted to know whether the ministry kept a database of suicide attempt cases according to race, gender and age and the action taken to prevent survivors from making further suicide attempts.
Tuan Masir said a total of 178 suicide and suicide attempt cases was recorded in 2013, while 191 cases was recorded in 2014. He added that the incidence of suicide in the country was due to various factors such as financial problems, depression, relationship disappointments and family problems.
In addressing suicide cases, Tuan Masir said, the police held meetings, lectures and dialogues on suicide awareness and prevention as well as provided counselling or psychotherapy services to those in need of help.
“The police advise family members to pay close attention to the behaviour of their family members with suicidal tendencies to avoid any untoward incidents.”
“The families are also advised to seek immediate counselling or psychotherapy services should they notice any change in an individual member’s behaviour such as being quiet or anxious,” he said.
He added that during the meetings, counsellors would offer advice to assist the individuals in resolving their issues and encourage them to discuss their feelings.
In the meantime, he said, parents should provide religious and moral education for their children from a young age as religious teachings could cultivate good manners and noble moral qualities.
“With religious and moral education, an individual will not likely indulge in self-inflicted physical harm and will be able to control and manage his or her emotions,” he added.
– BERNAMA