SHAH ALAM, Nov 4 — Youth are calling on the state government to dedicate a fund in the 2026 Selangor Budget to address mental health issues, especially among teenagers.
Teen chef and influencer Danish Harraz Abdul Hafiz, 18, said this is important to shape a younger generation with balanced emotional and mental health.
He said such allocations are particularly important for teenagers, citing the Youth Mental Health Study 2023 which recorded a 71.9 per cent score, reflecting a moderate level of mental health risk among youth.
“They are the future of the nation. A healthy mind is very important in building self-identity and improving quality of life.
“I propose that awareness programmes be held in schools and communities to help identify early signs of stress and depression.
“If the state government provides a special budget for mental health, it will not only reduce stigma but also nurture a more balanced young generation,” he told Media Selangor.
Meanwhile, human rights activist Suyashaa Srii Sukendran said adolescent mental health needs urgent attention in light of rising cases of bullying, rape, stabbings and suicide in schools.
She noted that many teenagers today are struggling in silence, while existing mental health support systems remain insufficient.
“This issue is not only about treatment, but also early prevention. Schools are the main environment where pressure occurs, from academic burdens and social media influence to peer comparison.
“Every secondary school should be given an annual allocation to implement mental health modules, including talks, peer support training and family-based activities.”
Suyashaa, who is Pocket of Pink education co-director, also proposed the establishment of free helplines, collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the private sector, and the development of interactive mental health games for children.
She said the allocation is not just a number in the budget, but a reflection of the state’s commitment to the well-being of the younger generation, especially those in rural areas and from B40 households.
The state government is expected to place greater emphasis on mental health, disease prevention, and environmental awareness in the 2026 Selangor Budget.
Previously, state executive councillor for public health and environment Jamaliah Jamaludin said the surge in mental health-related cases among students, such as bullying, abuse and suicide, requires serious intervention and early action at both school and community levels.
