The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) raises deep concern over recent reporting and online sharing of suicide cases linked to cyberbullying incidents. While public debate on these issues is important, the way they are reported can have serious consequences for vulnerable communities.
Kuala Lumpur, August 23, 2025 — The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) raises deep concern over recent reporting and online sharing of suicide cases linked to cyberbullying incidents. While public debate on these issues is important, the way they are reported can have serious consequences for vulnerable communities.
EVERY WORD, IMAGE, AND HEADLINE MATTERS
When suicide is sensationalized or oversimplified, it can heighten the dangers faced by those already struggling.
Reported responsibly, however, it can protect and support vulnerable individuals.
“Suicide is not just another story. The way it is reported can either fuel risk or offer a lifeline,” said Mediha Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer of the Content Forum. “This is especially important when it comes to youths and students, who are more impressionable and vulnerable to the way such stories are told.”
The Content Forum emphasizes that this is not about censorship, but about responsibility.
“We’re not asking for silence — we’re asking for responsibility. Suicide is a public health issue, and the way we communicate about it can either spread harm or spark hope. Done right, responsible reporting can save lives,” Mediha stressed.
The Content Forum urges all media organizations to reinforce safeguards with their newsrooms, as outlined in the Guidelines for Reporting and Sharing of Suicide-Related Content (link opens in a new tab), developed with the Ministry of Health and the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health (NCEMH). These include:
- Avoiding explicit details, methods, or images, including suicide notes.
- Steering clear of sensational or speculative reporting.
- Respecting the dignity and privacy of victims and families.
- Always including helplines and support resources.
Members of the public are also urged to act with care when sharing or commenting on such content online.
- Every post, every forward, every comment has an impact.
- Choosing responsibility over sensationalism protects vulnerable individuals and builds stronger communities.
- We can share stories of resilience without focusing on the manner of death.
- We can unite against bullying.
- And we must remember: a life should never be defined by its final moment.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help.
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| This is a press statement issued by the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum). It has been edited for clarity. |
