COVID-19: Helplines And Resources You Can Reach Out To For Help And Support

With the implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO), life has taken a new form of ‘normal’. This new situation comes with its circumstances and impact. For those struggling with the MCO, here are a few hotlines and resources available that you can turn to.

A helpline has been set up by the Health Ministry along with Mercy Malaysia to provide psychosocial support service for frontliners and the general public who are emotionally affected by the coronavirus outbreak. 

If you are in emotional distress and require additional support, contact the numbers below. The helplines are managed by psychologists from the Health Ministry and volunteers from Mercy Malaysia.

Contact numbers: 011-63996482 / 011-63994236 / 03-29359935

Operating hours: Daily, 8am to 5pm

Besides that, Talian Kasih is also providing tele-counselling services for those who are affected. If you need to seek help and emotional support, contact the numbers below.

Contact numbers: Hotline at 15999 / WhatsApp at 019-2615999

Operating hours: Daily, 24 hours

Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) has also set up a support line, MyCareCoV19, to provide emotional support, guidance and advice to those affected by the MCO regardless of their race and religion.

They have received calls and emails related to family matters, child custody issues to seek legal advice, and more.

Contact numbers: Hotline at 03-8870519/7527/7528 or email at mycarecov19@islam.gov.my

Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm

Offering emotional and psychological support for better wellbeing, Befrienders KL is available 24 hours a day. They also reach out to at-risk groups, particularly individuals at high risk of suicide to offer extra support.

Contact numbers: Hotline at 03-76272929. More contact methods via Befrienders website.

Operating hours: Daily, 24 hours

The Talian Kasih hotline is set up by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry to provide psychological support and beyond to those affected by the MCO. 

Calls received on issues concerning domestic violence and child abuse are taken seriously and the ministry will take immediate action (against the perpetrators) in accordance with the Child Act 2001 and Domestic Violence Act 1994.

Victims of domestic abuse may not have access to their phones and could be unable to lodge a complaint against their abusers. If you are a neighbour or concerned party who have witnessed or heard something suspicious, the police would like to urge you to come forward and assist the authorities.

Contact numbers: Hotline at 15999 / WhatsApp at 019-2615999

Operating hours: Daily, 24 hours

Those who have developed symptoms of fever, cough or shortness of breath should seek medical advice immediately. If you suspect you may have contracted the coronavirus, get in touch with the Ministry of Health – Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC).

Contact numbers: Hotline at 03-8881 0200 / 03-8881 0600 / 03-8881 0700, WhatsApp at +60109699435 / +60108608949

E-mail: cprc@moh.gov.my

Operating hours: Daily, 8am to 5pm

Students who would like to return to their home country are advised to contact their respective Embassy Offices. 

For any inquiries regarding passport, you contact the EMGS Hotline at 03-27825888.

Students seeking assistance and support may also contact the Ministry of Higher Education COVID-19 Operational Room at 03-88706 777/949/628/623.

You may reach out to one of the charities and funds mentioned below. Otherwise, you may also refer to this list of financial aid available as posted by The Rakyat Post.