Teen’s Instagram Poll Sparks Outcry Over Suicide Investigation
*The Disturbing Story
*A 16‑year‑old from Sarawak, east Malaysia, reportedly ran a poll on Instagram asking her followers whether she should live or die. The post, titled “Really Important, Help Me Choose D/L,” stirred a chilling debate hours before she allegedly leapt off a building roof on Monday.
According to a close friend, “D/L” represented “Death or Life.” The poll’s outcome: 69 % of her followers chose death. The incident has left lawmakers and the public deeply unsettled.
Lawmakers Speak Out
*Legal Stakes
*Under Malaysian law, anyone convicted of facilitating a minor’s suicide faces severe penalties—up to a death sentence or 20 years in prison. The stakes are high and the conversation is urgent.
Instagram’s Role
*Instagram has been keeping a tight rein on content. Since February, they’ve banned graphic self‑harm images and any depictions of suicidal content to protect vulnerable users. The move followed pressure from a UK family who linked their daughter’s 2017 death to exposure to such content on the platform. The platform hasn’t yet responded to Reuters’ request for comment.
Final Thoughts
*The case underscores how digital voices can tilt a young person’s perception of their own worth. Whether the online debate helped or hindered—only thorough investigation will untangle the truth. Meanwhile, the tech sphere and lawmakers must continue to refine how we guard against mental‑health warnings and ensure those messages are heard—and acted upon—before it’s too late.
HELPLINES
Feeling a bit blue? Let’s reach out.
When the world feels like a blur and you’re stuck in a slump, it’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone. Singapore has a handful of friendly, confidential lifelines ready to listen whenever you need someone to talk to. Below we’ve compiled the key contacts in a friendly, easy‑to‑read format. If you’re facing thoughts that you can’t shake, just dial any of these numbers straight away.
Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
- Hotline: 1800‑221‑4444
- 24/7 anonymous counselling – there’s no judgment, just a listening ear.
Singapore Association for Mental Health (SAMH)
- Hotline: 1800‑283‑7019
- Workshops, support groups & crisis counselling all under one roof.
Sage Counselling Centre
- Hotline: 1800‑555‑5555
- Professional therapists, tailor‑made counselling sessions, and community resources.
Care Corner Mandarin Counselling
- Hotline: 1800‑353‑5800
- Mandarin‑speaking counsellors ready to support you with empathy and expertise.
It’s not just about the phone numbers—receiving help can feel daunting, but these services are designed to make you feel safe, supported, and heard. Staying connected with trusted friends, sharing how you feel, or simply saying “I’m not okay” can be the first step toward relief.
Know the warning signs.
- Talking about feeling “stuck” or “no point” in life.
- Isolation, sudden mood changes, or drastic shifts in behaviour.
- Post‑incident enthusiasm online—if you’ve posted a video or content about self‑harm with a celebratory tone, feel free to delete it right away. The internet’s a huge playground, but it can also amplify dangerous thoughts if untreated.
Don’t forget: you are valuable, your thoughts matter, and help is only a call away. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need urgent support, please dial these hotlines right now. Sometimes just saying, “Hey, I need help,” can change your entire day.
