As part of a big push to address mental health in Malaysia, the government is allocating RM70 million to improve mental health-related services in Malaysia, as well as proposing expanding income tax relief to cover some services.

In the Budget 2022 tabling, Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz noted that the Covid-19 pandemic had not only wreaked havoc on the economy, but also led to issues such as domestic violence and depression. To address this, Budget 2022 will see RM70 million allocated to improve support, counselling, and psychosocial services, as well as increasing advocacy programmes including engaging with non-governmental organisations.

On top of that, Tengku Zafrul also proposed that the current income tax relief for medical examinations (currently claimable up to RM500) be expanded to cover consultation costs of psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and licensed counsellors.

In recent months, mental health experts have been calling for medical insurance policies to cover mental health issues and treatment. With these proposals in Budget 2022, the government is taking some steps to help Malaysians in this regard.

• TAGS:
• Covid-19
• Income Tax Relief
• Mental Health
• Tengku Zafrul Aziz