Alliance slams MP for mocking ‘bipolar disorder’ in Parliament

KUCHING (Feb 20): The Sarawak CSO-SDG Alliance has expressed strong disapproval over what it described as the cynical and mocking use of the clinical term “bipolar disorder” during a recent parliamentary sitting, warning that such language risks reinforcing stigma and deterring people from seeking help.

The alliance referred to remarks by Pendang MP Datuk Awang Hashim, who asked Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul to consider directing MPs to undergo bipolar screening during the Dewan Rakyat sitting on Feb 12.

While acknowledging that health screenings, including mental health assessments, can reflect responsible governance and leadership by example, the alliance said using clinical terms in a cynical or mocking manner is irresponsible and distorts public understanding of mental health conditions.

“A diagnosis of mental health disorders should not be used as a form of political insult or weaponised in parliamentary debate. It should never be trivialised or reduced to political rhetoric,” the alliance said in a statement.

The statement was endorsed by multiple civil society organisations, professionals and individuals advocating mental health awareness, disability rights and inclusive public policy.

The alliance cautioned that the misuse of terms such as “bipolar disorder” in public discourse could normalise ridicule, discourage early help-seeking, reinforce shame and discrimination, and undermine national advocacy efforts on mental health awareness and care.

It stressed that mental health is a recognised global public health priority requiring professional clinical evaluation, evidence-based treatment and sustained psychosocial support, and should not be trivialised in political rhetoric.

“Language shapes public attitudes. As community leaders, elected representatives carry a moral and social responsibility to use accurate terminology with sensitivity and to base their arguments on facts when discussing mental health issues.

“A mature public discourse should promote education, understanding, empathy and support — not reinforce stigma,” it added.

Citing disability-inclusive language guidance by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Forum, the alliance said conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder are legitimate medical illnesses and not metaphors for erratic behaviour or insults.

As such, the alliance called on political leaders and policymakers to adopt responsible terminology, invest in evidence-based public education to reduce stigma, strengthen access to quality mental health and psychosocial services, and build a Parliament and society that uphold dignity and inclusion.

“The Sarawak CSO-SDG Alliance stands firm in advancing systemic reform and accountable leadership in mental health.

“We will continue to advocate for stronger policies, accessible services and inclusive institutions that treat mental health with the seriousness, dignity and humanity it deserves,” it said.