5,857 suicides in Malaysia since 2020 highlight urgent youth and male mental health concerns
Police data show that over 5,800 suicide cases were reported in Malaysia from 2020 to October 2025, with more than 80% involving men, particularly young adults and working-age individuals. Rising cases among children and the elderly highlight the urgency of addressing mental health nationwide.
- 5,857 suicide cases reported in Malaysia since 2020, with 1,813 involving youths aged 15–30.
- Social stigma and fear of ridicule prevent many young people from seeking help; male callers often hang up before speaking.
- Selangor, Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang record the highest cases; officials stress workplace and media awareness to prevent copycat incidents.
MALAYSIA: Police statistics indicate that over 80 per cent of the 5,857 suicide cases reported in Malaysia from 2020 to October 2025 involved men, with a significant proportion being young adults and working-age individuals.
Of these, 1,813 cases involved youths aged 15 to 30, according to data cited by Harian Metro from a recent closed-door roundtable.
Barriers to Seeking Help
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh stated that the official figures likely underestimate the true scale, as many incidents are never reported.
She added that media coverage that sensationalises such cases could trigger imitative behaviours, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Yeoh highlighted that young people face social stigma when seeking support, including from educators, colleagues, and family members.
She noted that many youths fear their personal struggles will become topics of gossip or ridicule and that some are dismissed with terms like “crazy” or “needs medication.”
She also observed that male callers to helplines often hang up repeatedly before opening up, reflecting a high level of distress.
Need for Workplace Awareness
While counselling programs are concentrated in schools, Yeoh pointed out that working-age youth also represent a vulnerable group.
She emphasised the importance of equipping employers with training and knowledge to identify and address mental health issues among staff.
Police records indicate an increase in suicide cases among children and the elderly.
Selangor recorded the highest number of cases, followed by Johor, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please seek help immediately. In Singapore, you can contact the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) at 1-767 or text 9151 1767 for support. You’re not alone, and help is available.
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