IPOH: The Health Ministry has launched two new initiatives to strengthen the country’s efforts in preventing suicidal behaviour, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The National Suicide and Fatal Injury Registry Malaysia (NSFIRM) and the Postvention Services Guidelines were launched in conjunction with the national-level World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 at Poly-Tech MARA College on Monday (Sept 28).
Dzulkefly said NSFIRM would enhance the collection of forensic data on suicide deaths and fatal injuries, enabling systematic analysis and trend monitoring.
"The accurate data from the registry could also be used to formulate policies, programmes and services that are more targeted to needs on the ground," Dzulkefly said during his launch speech.
He noted that the Postvention Services Guidelines would ensure individuals affected by a suicide death receive appropriate psychosocial support to aid recovery and reduce copycat risks.
"Under the guidelines, postvention services will be carried out in a structured, systematic and integrated manner," he said, adding that Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) teams would provide ground assistance.
The ministry will also conduct training and capacity-building programmes alongside the Education Ministry, Social Welfare Department and non-governmental organisations.
Speaking at a press conference later, Dzulkefly highlighted that police data showed suicide cases rose from 981 in 2022 to 1,087 in 2023, reaching 1,114 in 2024.
"In 2025, the figure declined slightly to 1,079 cases," Dzulkefly said. "However, the number remains high."
Those suffering from mental health issues or contemplating suicide can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929, go to www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers and operating hours, or email sam@befrienders.org.my
