NGO pledges funding for student mental health support

MELAKA: A non-governmental organisation pledges to fund initiatives to improve mental health support for schoolchildren after recent alarming incidents.

Indian Crime Prevention Society chairman Datuk Ignatius Lourdsamy said the group is ready to work with healthcare providers and agencies to ensure access to care.

“Currently, not much emphasis is given to student mental healthcare and we are ready to collaborate to provide support,” he said on Wednesday (Oct 15).

He said the ICPS aims to commission more clinical psychologists to address mental health challenges among schoolchildren.

Lourdsamy said insufficient funding is a major barrier to access, especially in rural areas with limited trained professionals.

“Hence, we are willing to play our role to ensure services reach all schools and professionals are adequately supported,” he said.

He said recent cases, including a fatal stabbing in Selangor on October 14 and a gang rape in Melaka on October 2, should be a wake up call.

Lourdsamy said early detection of psychological distress among students is crucial to prevent such tragedies.

“Mental well-being is essential for academic success and for nurturing emotional resilience and creativity. Hence, taking care of mental health is necessary for a balanced and healthy life,” he added.

He said the ICPS is willing to work with schools, government agencies and NGOs to strengthen awareness and interventions in education settings.