Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad warns violent video games can harm children’s mental health without proper parental monitoring
KUALA SELANGOR: Children who frequently play violent video games risk developing mental health issues without proper parental monitoring according to Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
He stated that today’s digital world exposes children to various online influences including games affecting emotional stability and mental development.
“Anyone regardless of age can experience mental health problems but vulnerable groups such as children must receive attention and empathy from society.”
“Therefore those facing mental health issues should not be stigmatised but rather supported with access to proper treatment,” he told reporters after officiating the Rahmah Mesra Santuni MADANI Programme at Pantai Jeram.
He added that anyone could face mental health challenges during emotional fluctuations or increased stress whether experiencing anxiety or depression.
Dzulkefly confirmed the Health Ministry implemented several initiatives including the 15555 Hotline and K-Mindset Programme to address mental health concerns.
“Through K-Mindset the government allocated RM21.6 million to train village heads penghulus and religious figures to safeguard community mental health.”
He earlier officiated the 2025 Healthy Lungs and Mind Carnival part of the ministry’s Lung Health Initiative nationwide movement.
The initiative enhances access to screening early treatment and awareness advocacy for lung diseases including COPD asthma and lung cancer.
It now expands nationwide including Selangor through partnerships involving public private and community sectors. – Bernama
