We're not really sure why that is but clearly this law needs to be changed.

Recently a 28-year-old unemployed man tried to commit suicide by jumping off his balcony, failing which he got sentenced under Section 309 of the Penal Code instead.

He was eventually fined RM3,000 and if he failed to pay the fine, told to serve three months in jail!

The case sparked outrage among many Malaysians who have since initiated a petition on Change.org asking for Attorney General Idrus Harun and the Dewan Rakyat to decriminalise the act.

According to a report in Mashable SEA, the petition was started by Minds First, a youth group fighting for mental health awareness and support.

"Ideating or attempting suicide is most often a sign of a serious mental health condition or severe mental distress.

"Instead of punishing people who attempt suicide, we must help them access the support and services they desperately need,” read the petition.

The petition has gathered close to 15,000 signatures to date and we hope that those in power will take notice of it.

We stand with Minds First on this matter.

What people who attempt to commit suicide need is compassion and professional help. They do not deserve further punishment.