Kuala lumpur: Access to psychosocial support services for youths has been expanded through the Peer Support Hub and SEHAT Youth Hotline, providing alternative channels for them to seek help when facing emotional challenges. KASIH Malaysia chairman Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail stated that the Selangor government initiative complements existing support channels, aiming to bridge gaps in access to psychosocial services.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Wan Azizah, who is also the Prime Minister's wife, highlighted that the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) indicated youths are increasingly open to seeking help for emotional difficulties, which enhances access to psychosocial support. She emphasized that at the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development level, services like Talian Kasih exist, and the Peer Support Hub initiative implemented with NGOs can further reduce gaps in access.

Selangor Public Health and Environment Committee chairman Jamaliah Jamaluddin remarked that the state government is taking mental health and bullying issues among youths very seriously. She noted that the Peer Support Hub and SEHAT Youth Hotline offer essential psychosocial support, especially for those reluctant to share their problems in educational settings.

Jamaliah elaborated on a pilot project at SMK Bukit Jelutong and Bandar Utama, where Peer Support Club members are trained to assist peers with emotional challenges. If successful, the project will be proposed to the Selangor Menteri Besar for potential state-level implementation with federal backing.

The SEHAT Hotline has received 234 calls from January to August this year, while the Peer Support Hub commenced operations on July 11, offering services every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, with appointments available via the SELangkah application. A team of 27 trained support partners and clinical officers manage the service, ensuring comprehensive support for youths in need.