The media can be a double-edged sword in suicide prevention
with the Werther and Papageno effect as risk and protective factors
respectively. Objective: This article provides a brief overview of the impact
of media suicide reporting on suicidal behaviour and suicide prevention.
Results: In the Malaysian context, current practices of media suicide
reporting, advocacy strategies for responsible media suicide reporting as
well as challenges in stakeholder awareness and engagement are highlighted.
A review of the literature suggested limited implementaton and adherence of
media guidelines locally. Conclusions: Future research is warranted to
establish the evidence base for effective strategies to improve stakeholder
awareness, engagement and implementation of responsible media reporting
of suicide.