It has been a long road since Merdeka. More than 50 years, coming to 51. Malaysian media, in particular the press, has come a long long way. But much is desired. My pet peeve is the lack of responsibility by the press. No, not to do with politics, but in humanity in general.
Suicides are the reality of our mortal world. But I hate the way it is reported. Firstly, why on earth would they report the method of suicide. In Australia, there are strict guidelines that methods of suicide shall not be reported. This is to prevent copycats. Or unintentionally giving the depressed bad ideas and causing self harm. Restrain would also assist the family of the victims - let's not put them under the spot light. It is obviously a time of crisis.
Frankly - why the eff is it important to report how someone killed themselves? Why would the public want to know? Isn't that just a cheap way to sell the papers? Come on guys. You can do better. I rather they put a naked girl on page three and to glorify someone's tragic end. While naked girls are a big taboo, reporting death in a careless manner is accepted by all.
In addition, all reports about suicide is usually followed by a paragraph - telling the general public that if they need help, they can call the Befrienders. Phone numbers would be included. The worse I've come across is, an article by The Star.
Suicides are the reality of our mortal world. But I hate the way it is reported. Firstly, why on earth would they report the method of suicide. In Australia, there are strict guidelines that methods of suicide shall not be reported. This is to prevent copycats. Or unintentionally giving the depressed bad ideas and causing self harm. Restrain would also assist the family of the victims - let's not put them under the spot light. It is obviously a time of crisis.
Frankly - why the eff is it important to report how someone killed themselves? Why would the public want to know? Isn't that just a cheap way to sell the papers? Come on guys. You can do better. I rather they put a naked girl on page three and to glorify someone's tragic end. While naked girls are a big taboo, reporting death in a careless manner is accepted by all.
In addition, all reports about suicide is usually followed by a paragraph - telling the general public that if they need help, they can call the Befrienders. Phone numbers would be included. The worse I've come across is, an article by The Star.
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2006/9/17/nation/15459534&sec=nation
This is an article about a lifeline to teens in trouble. Guess what? The Star did NOT even bother to publish the contact details of the organizations it writes about. A long article about WAO - Women's Aide Organization. But too bad - it doesn't tell the readers who to call. What the eff. What kind of value add is that article? Wonder who the heck can I raise a ruckus and kindda force them to adopt more stringent guidelines.
This is an article about a lifeline to teens in trouble. Guess what? The Star did NOT even bother to publish the contact details of the organizations it writes about. A long article about WAO - Women's Aide Organization. But too bad - it doesn't tell the readers who to call. What the eff. What kind of value add is that article? Wonder who the heck can I raise a ruckus and kindda force them to adopt more stringent guidelines.
And yes, if you need someone to talk to, do contact the Befrienders. Their website is http://www.befrienders.org.my/
The image on the left is taken from their website. Sure hope it helps. Hey. There is help. There are people willing to help. It is just a phone call away.
The image on the left is taken from their website. Sure hope it helps. Hey. There is help. There are people willing to help. It is just a phone call away.
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