IPOH — Addressing the link between bullying and self-harm among school students requires a more proactive and coordinated approach, Malaysia’s Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said Wednesday. He emphasized the need for enhanced intervention through strengthened collaboration between the Health and Education Ministries.

Speaking at the launch of World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 at Poly-Tech Mara College, Dr Dzulkefly outlined measures including improved counselling services, early detection of behavioral issues, timely referrals, and targeted intervention. He noted that the ministries are actively implementing the National Bullying Policy alongside mental health literacy and awareness programmes within schools.

“The counselling services need to be further strengthened, including screening, early detection of behavioural issues and early symptoms, referrals and early intervention,” he stated, underscoring the importance of addressing mental health challenges before they escalate.

The Health Ministry’s Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services team will also roll out interventions and outreach initiatives aimed at assisting affected individuals, schools, and communities. In parallel, the School Health Programme is being expanded to raise mental health awareness, bolster students’ coping skills, and foster more inclusive school environments.

Dr Dzulkefly stressed that prevention efforts should focus on creating a positive school culture, with intervention that is proactive and preventative in nature. “We want something that is proactive and preventive by creating a more positive environment in schools, so that it becomes part of the culture,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of strategic communication, he warned that risk communication in suicide prevention must be carefully structured to avoid unintended negative consequences. He called for inter-agency cooperation involving key bodies such as the police, Civil Defence Force, and ministries of Education and Communications to ensure coordinated efforts.

The minister added that academic experts could play a vital role in developing clinical guidelines and other evidence-based interventions aimed at tackling bullying and its psychological impact.

This comprehensive approach signals a growing recognition within Malaysia’s government of the complex factors contributing to student mental health issues and the urgent need for collaborative, multi-sectoral responses.