Natural disasters such as floods can have a significant impact on people’s mental health, said Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang.
“The World Health Organisation tells us that after a major disaster, about one in five people will experience some form of mental health problem.
“Even in normal times, national health surveys show that a few in every hundred Malaysian adults suffer from depression,” he said.
Tiang’s speech was read by his representative, Penghulu Ting Tien Huat during the launch of World Mental Health Day Sibu Division at Methodist Pilley Institute.
Tiang noted that it was common for stress and anxiety levels to rise whenever disasters struck.
“This year’s theme, ‘Access to Mental Health in Disasters and Emergencies’, is especially meaningful for our state,” he said.
“Every year, the monsoon season brings floods that test the resilience of our communities.
“Earlier this year, more than 12,000 people across Sarawak were displaced due to flooding, including over a thousand in Sibu.
“Behind every number are real people who have faced fear, loss and hardship.
“When the floodwaters recede, many continue to feel anxious or sad.
“These feelings are natural, but they remind us that recovery is not only about rebuilding homes – it is also about restoring hope and peace of mind.”
Tiang stressed that mental and physical health are closely linked.
“When people are stressed or depressed, they may sleep poorly, lose focus and become unwell.
“This can affect their families, work and communities,” he said.
“But when we look after mental health, we help people recover faster and live better,” he added.
“That is why today’s event is so important – it reminds us that mental well-being must be an integral part of every recovery plan and every public health initiative.”
Tiang also highlighted the importance of Psychological First Aid (PFA), which provides comfort and appropriate support to those in distress.
“The Health Ministry has trained many front-line staff and volunteers in PFA and studies have shown that it helps them respond with confidence and compassion.
“Here in Sibu, our hospital teams, volunteers and local agencies have put these principles into practice.
“Their quiet work – listening, guiding and reassuring people – has brought strength to our community,” he added.
