IPOH: A total of 80 people have committed suicide in Perak since the movement control order was first implemented in March last year, says Datuk Dr Wan Norashikin Wan Noordin (PN-Kampung Gajah).

       The Women and Family Development, Welfare, Community Well-being and Non-Governmental Organisation Committee chairman said the highest contributing factor was due to mental stress with 33 cases.

       Dr Wan Norashikin said other factors or causes included finances (13), illness (four), drugs (three) and mental illness (three) while 24 cases were due to unknown reasons.

       She added that 66 of those who committed suicide in that period are men, while 14 are women.

       Dr Wan Norashikin said this when replying to Datuk Mohamad Azhar Jamaluddin (PN-Changkat Jong) during a question-and-answer session at the State Assembly sitting here Friday (aug 27).

       She added that there were now 9,772 registered patients seeking mental health treatment and said that 5,213 were registered last year and 4,559 were registered as of June this year.

       To an additional question from Mohamad Azhar on the long-term measures by the state to tackle stress and suicide cases, Dr Wan Norashikin said it was important to create a conducive environment for the community.

       "It starts at home. Parents need to play an important role to teach their children," she said.

       "There should also be support from the community like friends, neighbours, local communities, NGOs and schools to motivate children so they are able to face stress when tested," added Dr Wan Norashikin.

       Dr Wan Norashikin said the state's Women Development Department has also formed a "Skuad Waja" (Women Anti-Crime) Squad to empower the community with psychosocial support and in-community activities.

       "They are set up to increase awareness among the community should there be any related issues. They will provide assistance and refer cases to the respective agencies for professional assistance," she said.

       Dr Wan Norashikin added that the state Health Department also has mental health and social support services at hospitals and health clinics to help stabilise the emotions of those impacted and to overcome mental health issues during the pandemic.

       "As of Aug 14, some 270 volunteers have been appointed as squad members and mobilised to all 24 parliamentary constituencies in Perak,” said Dr Wan Norashikin

       "They were given training and support to help create a conducive and harmonious environment for the development of the community and women in various aspects," she added.

       Those suffering from problems can reach out to: Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or WhatsApp 019-261 5999); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (WhatsApp 0111-959 8214); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929 or www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers and operating hours).