LETTER | Malaysia Madani and mental health

LETTER | The principles of Malaysia Madani - sustainability, trust, respect, innovation, and compassion - are all essential components of mental health. 

Sustainability is important in order to ensure that mental health services are available for the long term and that they are able to meet the needs of those who require them.

Trust is essential for individuals to feel comfortable seeking help and engaging in treatment. 

Respect is necessary for individuals to feel valued and heard when discussing their mental health concerns. Innovation is important in order for mental health services to remain up to date with the latest research and treatments available. 

Finally, compassion is essential in order for individuals to feel supported and understood throughout their journey toward better mental health.

The Malaysia Madani concept - a framework for the development of a harmonious and progressive society that is based on the principles of justice, freedom, and responsibility - also directly addresses the social and psychological challenges faced by Malaysian society. 

These challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and marginalisation, are all social determinants of mental health and wellbeing.

Additionally, this concept also promotes the development of a culture of respect for human rights and encourages citizens to take responsibility for their own actions.

The society in Medina during the time of the Prophet Muhammad was highly developed and organised. It was a society that valued mental health and wellbeing and had a number of reforms in place to ensure that people were able to live healthy lives.

For example, the Prophet established a system of social welfare for those who were in need, such as orphans, widows, and the elderly. 

He also encouraged people to seek medical help when needed and provided free medical care for those who could not afford it. Additionally, he established laws that protected people from abuse or exploitation by others.

He encouraged people to practise self-care and take care of their mental health by engaging in activities such as prayer and meditation. All these reforms helped create an environment where mental health was valued and taken seriously.

Therefore, mental health leadership becomes an important part of Malaysia Madani as it seeks to create an environment where all Malaysians can live in peace and harmony. 

Mental health leaders and advocates should double their efforts in creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals with mental health issues. They should also work to ensure that mental health services are accessible and available to all Malaysians. 

Better mental health policies and programmes will benefit the entire nation by creating a more humane and inclusive society.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.