He added that this initiative aims to make it easier for the public, especially teenagers, to access mental health counselling services.

“We have received offers from telecommunications companies to provide this helpline free of charge, because currently it is subject to regular charges.

“We hope that major companies like CelcomDigi and Maxis will offer this service for free to encourage more young people to seek help and receive advice from counsellors,” he said in response to a supplementary question from Siti Zailah Yusoff (PN-Rantau Panjang) about government strategies for addressing mental health problems in children.

Lukanisman said Heal Line had received 46,324 calls since its establishment on Oct 21, 2022.

Of the total, 27,361 callers received emotional support and counselling assistance, while 18,963 callers required specialised interventions from psychologists.

“There were 288 cases of suicidal behaviour, of which 161 cases of suicidal ideation were given interventions and 127 suicide attempt cases were referred to health facilities for further treatment,” he said.

He added that for every suicide attempt case successfully rescued and discharged from hospital, helpline officers, particularly psychology officers, would conduct regular follow-up calls to ensure their recovery.