Country Profile
Malaysia
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Are You In A Crisis Right Now?
Malaysia
Is Suicide Decriminalised?
Has the country decriminalised suicide, with clear legal frameworks and policy positions?
Yes
Are Crisis Lines Available?
Is free, confidential support from a helpline or hotline available? Status provided by find a helpline.
Yes
Member of
National Suicide Prevention Strategy?
Is there a national suicide prevention strategy, such as from the WHO, and does include decriminalisation, if known?
Yes
Population in Need of Support Per Year
Based on the WHO likely attempted suicide rate.
As a calculation of population size against suicide rate
Strength Of Support (Local Qualitative Assessment)
Population
Suicide Rate Per 100K Per Year, all Sexes (SDG 3.4.2)
per 100,000
WHO 2019 for SDG 3.4.2. Global average 1 per 100,000
Suicide Deaths Per Year (By Population)
per annum
As a calculation of population size against suicide rate
On May 22, the Dewan Rakyat passed a bill that removed Section 309 of the Penal Code of Malaysia - a clause that penalised suicide attempts with up to one-year in prison. The decriminalisation of suicide in Malaysia marked a significant step towards mental health reform in the nation.
Despite underreporting, authorities in Malaysia measured a staggering 8.9% suicide-related death rate in 2022, with young adults aged 15 – 29 disproportionately affected. Mental health challenges and experiences remained stigmatised, and the country lacked robust crisis support services, infrastructure and data collection. This, combined with the ineffectual deterrent of suicide being deemed a criminal act, sparked a movement for change.
“People should be treated as patients instead of criminals.” MQM Senator Faisal Ali Subzwari.
The legislative reforms abolished outdated colonial-era laws and demonstrated a commitment to prioritising crisis intervention, treatment, rehabilitation, and support over punishment.
As Malaysia continues its mental health reform efforts, including amendments to the Mental Health Act, it takes crucial steps towards building a resilient and supportive society that values mental well-being.
This country profile has been compiled from available research and verified as well as possible. If you wish to supply clarifications, updates, feedback, facts or data, please use the Contact Us form on this page. And if you want your country to take ownership of managing and sharing this information, and progress being made, please register your interest in participating via our Get Involved form.
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