In a statement today, MEF president Syed Hussain Syed Husman urged employers to implement comprehensive policies addressing mental health needs, including flexible work arrangements, leave policies and accommodations for stress management.

He also said many of the issues facing employees at the workplace related to financial difficulties, particularly spending and savings.

“Significant effort is needed to improve financial management education and encourage living within one’s means,” he said in a statement.

According to the survey by the Institute of Public Health, one million Malaysians aged 16 and above or 4.6% of the population experience depression, a figure that has doubled between 2019 and 2023.

About half of the respondents also admitted having thoughts of self-harm or feeling that they would be better off dead.

Syed Hussain called for open dialogue about mental health as high turnover rates were often linked to burnout, stress and unsupportive workplace cultures.

“It is important to reduce the stigma on mental health by integrating well-being into the corporate agenda. Employers should set realistic expectations and promote work-life integration through clear boundaries and supportive practices,” he added.