Elucidating Suicide Susceptibility Among B40 and M40 Groups in Malaysia

Abstract

Suicide cases among Malaysians are increasing from year to year and various causes are assumed to contribute to the occurrence of this incident. This article presents finding from a national cross-sectional study on the susceptibility of suicide tendency among the Malaysian community with regard to two main group in Malaysia that are B40 and M40 groups. A total of 1096 respondents responded to the survey out of 1200 surveys distributed and the SmartPLS 4.0 was used to analyze the data. The results showed technology, social, and faith were found to be significantly and positively related to suicide while technology is identified as the key factor within the study. This study suggested that people who have strong religious or spiritual beliefs tend to have lower thoughts about suicide while adequate social support is pivotal in lowering suicidal thoughts. The variability in findings highlights the need for further research that considers different contexts, methodologies, and populations to better understand the relationship between the likely causes of suicide. The findings can lead to the development of community-based support systems and outreach programs, fostering environments that promote mental well-being and reduce stigma in line with current government national policy where psychological well-being remains a priority thrust for realizing the National Mental Health Strategic Plan 2020-2025.