In the wake of the recent suicide by a 16 year old teenager from Sarawak triggered by an Instagram poll, MCMC recently sent out a statement reminding everyone that it is in fact illegal to spur a suicidal minor on or encourage those looking to suicide (up to 20 years jail time and fines). The teen had apparently asked followers of her Instagram “Really Important, Help Me to Choose D/L” in which 69% of the respondents chose D (which stood for death). She was then found dead, believed to have fallen from the 3rd floor of a shop lot in Kuching.
The teen was suspected of experiencing depression due to her stepfather marrying a Vietnamese woman and thus not seeing her as often as she wanted. Her Facebook status said “WANNA QUIT F**KING LIFE I’M TIRED.” but the teen’s mother said that she did not show any changes in her behaviour.
No news yet if any of those who voted “D” will be charged, but as always with such things, we heartily recommend to take these cries for help seriously. No one should knowingly tell anyone to die or kill themselves, even as a joke and if you do see these signs please reach out and let them know they are not alone. Parents in particular should be more tech aware and know what is going on on their children’s social media. You can always suggest that they reach out to The Befrienders at 03-79568145.
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