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Outline

Title
Abstract
Key Takeaways
Figures
Introduction
Methodology
Findings
Finding 1: The Opinions
Summary of Findings
Conclusion
References
FAQs
All Topics
Psychology
Psychiatry and Mental health

Malaysia’s Pathway to the Decriminalisation of Suicides: Students’ Opinion and Discussions

Profile image of Faris DurraniFaris DurraniProfile image of Tay Yi ThongTay Yi ThongProfile image of Matthew OoiMatthew Ooi

2020

https://doi.org/10.1016/J.GENHOSPPSYCH.2014.12.002.ACCESSED2020-04-16.P.12
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44 pages

Abstract

Section 309 of the Penal Code Malaysia criminalises the attempt of suicide with imprisonment of up to one year, fines, or both regardless of the reasons behind the suicide attempt. This law continues to be practised today alongside Sections 305 and 306 regarding the abetment of suicide. There have been calls to repeal this law from within the government itself, and instead recognise mental health struggles among Malaysians and its relationship with suicide. However, any formal proposal to amend the law has yet to be made public. This research, conducted through an online survey, aims to examine Malaysian tertiary students on their views of decriminalising suicide. Overall, there is no clear consensus amongst the respondents on whether suicide should be kept prohibited or legalised although they are more receptive to the concept of legalising medical-assisted suicide and euthanasia. The arguments to retain the law among respondents are generally split between fear and moral transgression whilst the argument to decriminalise is divided based on reason and the effectiveness of the law as a deterrent. Additionally, those who had a mental health diagnosis are slightly more prone to repeal the law and view this issue from a utilitarian standpoint. One constant belief amongst them however is that those who are suicidal should be helped rather than further be punished. This paper recommends repealing Penal Code 309 and decriminalise suicide attempts as part of addressing the larger issue of mental health in the country.

Key takeaways
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  1. Repealing Section 309 of Malaysia's Penal Code is vital for addressing mental health issues.
  2. 55% of respondents favor legalizing suicide, while 35% support its prohibition.
  3. The law is ineffective as a deterrent; only 20% believe it prevents suicide attempts.
  4. Respondents emphasize the need for compassion and psychological support for those struggling.
  5. Decriminalizing suicide aligns with global trends and WHO recommendations for mental health care.
Figures (9)
The overall consensus on decriminalising suicides in Malaysia (n = 31) the data, a simple majority agreed that suicide should be legalised, though with a significant
The overall consensus on decriminalising suicides in Malaysia (n = 31) the data, a simple majority agreed that suicide should be legalised, though with a significant
*Data does not include respondents who answered Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree
*Data does not include respondents who answered Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree
A Moral and Religious Transgression Suicide, like other Crimes, Create Feelings of Uneasiness and Fear to Those Close A respondent who disclosed their mental health diagnosis to their contacts voiced a lack of
A Moral and Religious Transgression Suicide, like other Crimes, Create Feelings of Uneasiness and Fear to Those Close A respondent who disclosed their mental health diagnosis to their contacts voiced a lack of
% of respondents (n = 35) Opinions on Whether the Law has a Deterrent Effect on Suicide hospitals refusing to admit patients with suicidal inclinations. Ignoring those with underlying
% of respondents (n = 35) Opinions on Whether the Law has a Deterrent Effect on Suicide hospitals refusing to admit patients with suicidal inclinations. Ignoring those with underlying
**The original questions were phrased as: (1) “Have you ever thought of purposely injuring yourself, be it a manifestation of any psychological disorders or not?”; (2) “Have you ever thought of attempting suicide?”; (3) “Have you purposely injured yourself before?”; and (4) “Have you ever attempted suicide before?”. no. of respondents (n = 29) Number of respondents who reported to Self Harm and Attempted to Suicide**
**The original questions were phrased as: (1) “Have you ever thought of purposely injuring yourself, be it a manifestation of any psychological disorders or not?”; (2) “Have you ever thought of attempting suicide?”; (3) “Have you purposely injured yourself before?”; and (4) “Have you ever attempted suicide before?”. no. of respondents (n = 29) Number of respondents who reported to Self Harm and Attempted to Suicide**
*Data does not include respondents who answered Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree % of respondents (n = 13 for those with diagnoses, n = 22 for those without) The difference in Certain Opinions Between Respondents who have/had mental health diagnoses versus those without*
*Data does not include respondents who answered Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree % of respondents (n = 13 for those with diagnoses, n = 22 for those without) The difference in Certain Opinions Between Respondents who have/had mental health diagnoses versus those without*
In what situations should someone have the legal right to suicide? % of respondents (n = 13 for With Diagnoses, n = 18 for Without Diagnoses)
In what situations should someone have the legal right to suicide? % of respondents (n = 13 for With Diagnoses, n = 18 for Without Diagnoses)

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FAQs

sparkles

AI

What are the key arguments against criminalizing suicide attempts in Malaysia?add

The study identifies that 77% of respondents believe imprisonment exacerbates mental distress rather than providing deterrence, supporting calls for decriminalization.

How do mental health histories affect opinions on suicide decriminalization?add

Responses indicate a stark contrast: only 15% of those with mental health diagnoses support prohibiting suicide, compared to 55% of those without.

What stage of suicidal ideation is most critical according to the findings?add

Stage three, when a decision to commit suicide is made, is deemed most critical for interventions, highlighting the need for timely psychological support.

How was data collected to gather opinions on suicide laws among students?add

An online survey was distributed through social media platforms, maintaining respondents' anonymity while targeting Malaysian university students.

What percentage of respondents support legalizing suicide in Malaysia?add

55% of respondents agree that suicide should be legalized, reflecting a division of opinions on this sensitive issue.

About the authors
Faris Durrani
Georgia Institute of Technology, Undergraduate
Tay Yi Thong
Matthew Ooi

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