KUCHING: Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Women chief Kho Teck Wan opined that suicide cases served as a reminder to everyone to focus on the family and be a more responsible social media user.
Commenting on the suicide of a student who chose to die after getting an Instagram poll done whether she should live or die, Kho said social media is not a place to seek professional help.
However, she said that netizens can help by calling and reporting the potential suicidal case to the relevant authorities and family members.
Kho urged social media users to be compassionate and considerate, as former US president Ronald Reagan once said, “We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.”
“It is imperative that parents be attentive of their young children’s social media activities, and seek immediate help should their children display any tendency to do self-harm.
“Life is precious, therefore I urge those suffering to seek professional help”, she added.
Kho said that anyone who needs counselling or know of someone who needs help can call the Sarawak Department of Women and Family’s helpline at 1-800-225566 or 082-448866.
The Mental Health Association of Sarawak also provides counselling services in English, Malay and Mandarin every Monday and Wednesday from 8.30am to 1pm.
