Teen suicide rates in Penang have reached concerning levels, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang told the state legislative assembly today.
Citing data from the Penang Health Department, Ng said 12% of teenagers in the state have experienced suicidal thoughts, 9.5% have made suicide plans and 9.3% have attempted suicide.
“One in 10 teenagers in Penang has attempted suicide. Although slightly lower than national figures, this is still deeply worrying,” he said while debating the Supply Bill.
Nationally, 13.1% of teenagers report suicidal thoughts, 10% have planned suicide and 9.5% have attempted it, he noted.
Ng added that Penang recorded 103 rescued suicide attempt cases from 2020 to 2025—an average of 20 saved lives per year. However, during the same period, the state registered 564 suicide deaths, placing it fifth highest nationwide.
He said the main factors linked to suicidal ideation include emotional distress (209 cases), health issues (73), financial difficulties (70) and family problems (60).
Ng urged the government to address the growing mental health crisis and called on parents to monitor their children’s well-being and seek professional help without stigma.
