Malaysia has taken a major step in mental health reform by decriminalising attempted suicide, officially removing jail terms and fines for those who try to take their own lives. The change came into effect on Sept 10, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day 2025.

Malaysia has now decriminalised attempted suicide as part of mental health reform on Sept 10
Malaysia has now decriminalised attempted suicide as part of mental health reform on Sept 10.
Image credit: James Madison University

From punishment to support

Instead of treating suicide attempts as a crime, the government will now direct its efforts toward treatment and support. According to a joint statement by the Prime Minister’s Department Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) and the Ministry of Health (MOH), this shift is designed to reduce stigma, encourage people to seek help, and ultimately lower suicide rates nationwide.

BHEUU of the JPM and the MOH issued a joint statement encouraging people to seek help in order to reduce the problem of suicide
The Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) issued a joint statement encouraging people to seek help in order to reduce the problem of suicide.
Image credit: Katrin Bolovtsova (Pexels)

Stricter action on abetment suicide

While attempting suicide is no longer a punishable offence in Malaysia, abetment of suicide remains a serious crime under the Penal Code.

  • Section 306, Penal Code (Act 574): Abetment of suicide is punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine.
  • Section 305, Penal Code (Act 574): If the case involves a child or a vulnerable person, the penalty increases to 20 years in prison.

To strengthen frontline response, the new law creates the role of Crisis Intervention Officers (PIK). These trained officers, which are drawn from the police, welfare agencies, fire and rescue, and other services will be empowered to respond to suicide attempts. Their role includes escorting individuals to psychiatric hospitals for assessment and care.

Abetment of suicide will be dealt with under the Penal Code
Abetment of suicide will be dealt with under the Penal Code.
Image credit: Aquarius Studio (Shutterstock)

As part of this reform, the MOH is gazetting 145 hospitals nationwide, including two university hospitals, as psychiatric referral centres. This ensures that those in crisis, even in rural areas can be quickly referred for treatment.

A push towards prevention

Officials describe this move as a turning point in Malaysia’s approach to suicide prevention. By replacing criminal penalties with medical and social support, the government hopes more people will step forward for help without fear of prosecution.

“This reform represents a cultural shift. We want those struggling with mental health issues to seek help, not hide in silence,” the joint statement said.

A reminder that help is always available, choose prevention over suicide
A reminder that help is always available, choose prevention over suicide.
Image credit: MIMS Malaysia

Where to seek help

If you are feeling distressed or experiencing negative thoughts, support is available. You can reach out to:

  • Befrienders: www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia
  • Talian Kasih: 15999
  • Talian BuddyBear: 1800-18-2327
  • Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service: 03-2935 9935 / 014-322 3392
  • Jakim’s Family, Social and Community Care Centre WhatsApp: 0111-959 8214

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