Kuala lumpur: Malaysia will participate in the Convention on the Rights of the Child in Geneva, Switzerland, to present its initiatives to address digital safety and mental health challenges among children. Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri emphasized the importance of this participation in sharing Malaysia’s ongoing and planned efforts, as well as gaining insights from other countries.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nancy Shukri highlighted the role of her ministry in raising awareness through advocacy programmes in schools, aimed at educating students, teachers, and parents about the risks and impacts of children’s exposure to social media. She addressed reporters after attending the Kuching District Education Office Excellence Awards 2024 ceremony, where she also discussed the collaborative efforts with the Education Ministry to address youth mental health issues.

Nancy elaborated on a dedicated initiative that provides young people with a platform to express their concerns, supported by trained counsellors. She actively promotes the 15999 helpline, which connects individuals to relevant professionals, especially for mental health-related issues, not only among children but across the community.

She further mentioned the positive response to the One-Stop Social Support Centres, which have been expanded following requests from various quarters, including government agencies, the private sector, and NGOs. For individuals requiring further treatment, she noted that arrangements would be discussed and coordinated to ensure appropriate care is provided.