SHAH ALAM, June 9 — The Selangor Counselling Centre (PKS) should be expanded to be larger, more comfortable, and conducive, in line with the growing demand for counselling services among the public.
Its psychology officer Faridah Abdul Jalil@Abas said the recommendation is being reviewed by the Selangor government, to ensure the centre can continue providing free support to those in need.
“We want more complete and therapeutic facilities so that services provided can be improved according to current needs and in line with the times,” she told Media Selangor.
Faridah added that the centre has 29 trained personnel who handle a wide range of mental health cases, including people with self-harm tendencies.
She said PKS also has five clinical psychologists registered with the Health Ministry (MOH) who provide specialised psychological assessments.
“Clinical psychology services outside are quite expensive, but here the public can (access) them for free and in an easier way,” she said.
Faridah also said PKS, which was established in the 1990s, is a unique initiative, noting that no other state has such a service.
She added that Talian Sehat is operated by 15 personnel who provide free emotional support to individuals seeking help.
“There are calls received where the individual is truly distressed and requires immediate assistance,” Faridah said.
On July 5, 2024, media reports highlighted that urban living pressures and domestic violence were among key factors contributing to mental health issues among Selangoreans.
State executive councillor for public health and environment Jamaliah Jamaluddin had said this is being influenced by economic challenges, employment-related pressures and family circumstances, issues similarly faced by residents in other states.
