Urgent need to revamp Sabah's mental health-care system

Daily Express

3 days ago

Published on: Wednesday, July 09, 2025
Published on: Wed, Jul 09, 2025 Text Size: Noraini said mental health literacy among the public must be strengthened to ensure psychological disorders are not left untreated or allowed to spiral into violent outcomes. Tuaran: Former Senator Datuk Noraini Idris called for the revamping of Sabah's mental healthcare system following a tragic incident in Tenghilan, here, where a female teacher was reportedly killed by her own brother, believed to suffer from mental health issues. Describing the incident as heartbreaking, Noraini expressed her condolences to the victim's family and said the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call to the public and authorities alike. 'We must stop treating mental health as a secondary concern. This is a public safety and community well-being issue,' she said in a statement, Monday. Noraini said mental health literacy among the public must be strengthened to ensure psychological disorders are not left untreated or allowed to spiral into violent outcomes. She urged the State Government and Sabah Health Department to prioritise mental healthcare as part of broader efforts to safeguard communities. Among the proposals she outlined were upgrading facilities and services at Bukit Padang Hospital, including increasing the number of psychiatric specialists and expanding patient capacity. She also called for the establishment of dedicated mental health support centres in each district to provide early screening, family counselling and referral pathways for chronic cases. 'Access to treatment must be made easier and more inclusive, especially for families who lack the resources or knowledge to seek help on their own,' she said. Noraini also recommended expanding mental health education programmes in schools, workplaces and local communities to help people recognise early warning signs and overcome the stigma associated with seeking treatment. She further stressed the need for systematic follow-up procedures for patients discharged from mental health facilities, including coordinated efforts between hospitals, families and local authorities. 'The Tenghilan tragedy is a painful reminder that mental health affects everyone, regardless of background. 'Treatment and support must be at the centre of our response, not just sympathy after something terrible happens,' she said. Noraini reaffirmed her support for initiatives aimed at strengthening mental healthcare delivery in Sabah, saying the physical and emotional well-being of the people should be treated as a priority across all levels of governance. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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