GPMS Calls For Regular Mental Health Screenings At All Educational Institutions

Kuala lumpur: The Federation of Peninsular Malay Students (GPMS) has proposed that regular mental health screenings be carried out at all educational institutions to identify at-risk students at an early stage. Its secretary-general, Wafiyuddin Musa, emphasized the importance of implementing a scheduled screening system as a mandatory procedure to detect high-risk students before challenges escalate to actions beyond their control. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wafiyuddin highlighted GPMS's serious concern about a recent stabbing incident at a secondary school in Banting, which underscores the worsening mental health crisis, depression, and emotional stress among students nationwide. He remarked that this crisis is not a new phenomenon but rather a reflection of the ongoing failure to address youth mental health issues comprehensively and effectively. GPMS has also proposed strengthening peer support mechanisms and establishing dedicated counselling pathways, including a fast-track referral system for d irect access to psychologists. To support this initiative, GPMS is ready to partner strategically with relevant ministries in implementing support programs. Furthermore, GPMS recommended enhancing policies on emotional well-being through cross-ministerial coordination and collaboration between government entities, non-governmental organizations, and the media. Wafiyuddin also called for increased efforts to promote anti-bullying awareness campaigns and to reinforce the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy against bullying in educational institutions. To further these efforts, GPMS, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, is organizing the 2026 Rakan Muda Prihatin Lawan Buli @ Safe Zone Anti-Bullying Communication Campaign, which will involve schools, institutions of higher learning, and the broader community.