Lawmakers Distressed Over Teen Suicide Believed Spurred By Instagram Poll

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Under Malaysian law, attempted suicide is a criminal offence, which could mean that supporting it may be construed as abetment.
(MMO) – Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman voiced deep concern today about the state of Malaysian youths’ mental health following the suicide of a 16-year old teenager in Batu Kawah, Sarawak.
On Twitter, the minister said the incident yesterday, which was linked to an Instagram poll, must prompt urgent contemplation in the country.
“I am genuinely worried about the state of our youth’s mental health. It’s a national issue which must be taken seriously. A national discussion must take place. I’m free at 5.30pm on Friday.
“Let’s dialogue at the IIUM (International Islamic University) Econs Cafe,” Syed Saddiq said while extending an invitation to break fast with him.
Separately, Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh urged the government to investigate interactions on the deceased teen’s social media accounts, saying the suicide appeared to follow an online poll she had initiated.
He pointed out that 69 per cent of the teenager’s Instagram followers had reportedly voted for the late teen to take her own life.
“In the circumstances, I urge the authorities, particularly the Communications and Multimedia Ministry to investigate the social media accounts of the victim and the circumstances that led to her death to prevent further abuse of social media in similar circumstances in the future.
“With respect, classifying the case as sudden death at this stage may not be the right decision without such further investigations,” he said in a statement.
The DAP National Legal Bureau chairman noted that under Malaysian law, attempted suicide is a criminal offence, which could mean that supporting it may be construed as abetment.
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