THE D’Home Mental Health Association has proposed to the Penang government to set up a state mental health advisory council to help the people identify, address, and overcome mental health issues faced by the people in Penang.
The association chairman Datuk Dr Leslie Lee said Penang could be the first state in the country to establish a state-level mental health advisory council.
“Perhaps it is timely for the state to consider having a state mental health advisory council for the benefit of Penangites. It will be able to help Penangites look into their mental health needs,” he said in his opening speech during the Family Link Education Programme (FLEP), held virtually today.
Dr Lee said the association was willing to come up with a working paper on the proposal.
Dr Lee and his wife also committed RM100,000 to kick start the project.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who attended the virtual programme with his wife Tan Lean Kee, welcomed the idea of having a state mental health advisory council.
“I will bring the matter up during the Penang executive council meeting for its consideration,” he said.
Chow said the issues of mental health must be given serious attention.
“The Penang government is honoured to participate in FLEP and to show our support towards addressing mental health issues, especially during this Covid-19 pandemic period.
“According to the Royal Malaysia Police, a total of 631 suicide cases (nationwide) were reported last year (2020) compared to 609 cases in 2019. A total of 336 suicide cases (nationwide) have been reported as of March this year,” he said, adding that the public awareness on the importance of mental health was still at an unsatisfactory level.
Chow said the state believed that mental health issues could be appropriately addressed though the right knowledge and exposure.
Tan thanked the organisers – D’Home Mental Health Association and Someone for Each One – for holding the free virtual programme.
“The pandemic has brought negative impacts on the mental health of many people.
“Education and the right exposure through mental health talks can be the platform to help those in need.
“Do not lose hope and do not go through this alone. Seek help and support from your loved ones, friends, or professionals,” she told those who are suffering from mental distress.
The two-day virtual FLEP programme was held today (July 10) and will be held again on July 17.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Alissala Thian