Rep: Mental health growing challenge affecting Sarawakians, strengthening community-based support vital

KUCHING (Dec 1): Mental health is a growing challenge that affects families, workplaces, and society, said Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

He praised the Mental Health Association of Sarawak Kuching for its tireless work particularly in outreach, rehabilitation, crisis support, and public education.

“Your efforts continue to fill an important gap, particularly for vulnerable individuals who may not know where to turn for help. Mental health is not an abstract issue but a real and growing challenge.

“When we strengthen community-based mental health support, we are not just offering services but also giving people hope, dignity, and a chance at recovery,” he said during the branch’s Project Sayang graduation ceremony at Sentosa Hospital on Sunday.

Yap said those who completed the programme had chosen to learn and serve, becoming a beacon of support within their respective communities.

According to him, Project Sayang reflects the spirit of compassion and responsibility.

He said the collaboration between the branch, healthcare professionals, and community volunteers showed what the community can achieve when they work together with sincerity and purpose.

“As we all know, sustaining mental health services requires not only passion and volunteers but also stable and adequate resources,” he said.

Acknowledging the branch’s request for ongoing support including operational funding, Yap pledged to remain committed to exploring practical ways to assist and enable essential services to continue growing and reaching more in the community.

He also hoped graduates will carry the values of Project Sayang with pride.

“You are now part of a network that plays a crucial role in early intervention, community awareness, stigma reduction, and emotional support.

“Your presence could make the difference between silence and recovery for someone in need,” he added.