Suicide isn’t something easy to talk about, but it is also something that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Suicide and attempted suicide used to be (ironically), a crime in Malaysia. Previously, our Penal Code followed the old common law approach to attempted suicide, where English law perceived suicide as a crime against God and the King.
Now, our government is looking at decriminalising suicide to address the climbing number of cases all over the country.
Photo: Malay Mail
According to The Star, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said both she and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad had highlighted the necessity for the government to review Section 309 of the Penal Code, which deals with attempted suicide.
"I was made to understand that the Attorney-General's Chambers is studying and looking into the existing laws on the issue,” Dr Wan Azizah said.
She also seconded social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye’s cries for lawmakers to speak up regarding mental health issues. Lee had previously also asked that the government do away with the criminalisation of suicide attempts.
The Star also reported that Dr Wan Azizah said more evaluation was required when she asked if the changes could be brought up for discussion in the ongoing Parliament meeting.
We think this is a great step forward. Mental health issues should be properly addressed and adequately managed.
By: Celestine Foo
