MoH to set up national centre to educate public on mental health: Khairy

PUTRAJAYA – The Health Ministry plans to establish a National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health to educate and help people affected by mental illnesses, said Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

He said the centre would not only function as a research centre but also as an easy access point for mental health-related matters.

“MoH is also committed to focusing on the mental health of the people, besides physical health. The Covid-19 pandemic has had various effects, such as the loss of loved ones and also in terms of financial problems," he said.

Khairy said this during the launch of the Mental Health Strategic Plan 2020–2025 and the “Let's TALK Minda Sihat” media campaign conducted virtually in conjunction with World Mental Health Day today.

According to Khairy, MySejahtera will also be improved to enable those with mental health problems to seek help through the app, while the Healthy Malaysia National Agenda will be launched soon to support the National Recovery Plan.

On the Mental Health Strategic Plan 2020-2025, Khairy said MoH has a long-term policy to improve the country’s mental health services, prepared by mental health experts after taking input from various stakeholders into account.

Eight key scopes are outlined in the plan, including improving the governance and regulatory framework, strengthening the mental health control system, ensuring the availability and accessibility of comprehensive mental health services, and strengthening mental health resources.

Its scope also covers enhancing cross-sectoral cooperation, promoting mental well-being and health, strengthening preparedness during emergencies, crises and disasters, and suicide prevention.

On the “Let's TALK Minda Sihat” media campaign, Khairy said MoH was looking to reach out to 22 million Malaysians through various media platforms to raise awareness on mental health.

The national theme for the World Mental Health Day celebration this year is “Towards Mental Health Equality”, in line with the global theme of “Mental Health Care for All: Let's Make It a Reality” set by the World Health Organisation. – Bernama, October 10, 2021