Who are we

Let us introduce ourselves to you about who Befrienders are. People call us for many reasons, some callers are people who need emotional support. Others may be frightened, angry, sad, lonely or depressed. Callers talk to us about their families, their jobs, their personal relationships, money problems, sickness, depression and school concerns and etc. If you feel is more comfortable by not giving your name when you call, it is alright.

Whatever your situation is, we will treat your feelings and your story with respect. Everything you tell us is confidential within The Befrienders, we will not keep any records. We promise you this. You will always have the right to make your own decisions, including the right to end the phone call.

If you are feeling like you have no one else to turn to, or if you just need a safe place to talk, please call us. We are always here to listen, you are not alone.

History

In 1970, a group of pioneer Malaysians was concerned about the emotional well being of the community after the occurrence of communal riots on the 13th May 1969. With the assistance of professional psychiatrists and psychologists from University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, The Befrienders KL was established.

The Befrienders is a non profit organization modelled after Samaritans, a movement started in London in 1953. Since then, the movement has spread to about 40 countries and now has 300 centres around the world.

Our services

We are FRIENDS to those who are suicidal, depressed or in despair.

We are there when things are too much. When no one cares and no one will listen.

You can tell any Befriender how you feel and why everything is so bad.

You can share your innermost feelings without fear or criticism or judgement, safe in the knowledge that it will be kept confidential.

In fact, you needn’t even tell us your name. You can just talk to us on the phone, email us, write to us, or meet a Befriender face to face.

The Befrienders do not offer financial assistance but we provide confidential befriending 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without charge.

We are a multi-racial, non religious organization and we are available to everyone, regardless of creed, race, religion, age or sex.

Our Vision
A world in which fewer people feel the need to end their own lives.

Our Mission
To alleviate distress and help reduce the risk of suicide through emotional support and public education.

Our Goals

• To provide emotional support to the distressed and the suicidal at all times.
• To impart emotional support skills to the community.
• To instil coping skills for better mental health.
• To create awareness of the causes of suicide and how it can be prevented.
• To increase our effectiveness by working in partnership with others.
• To become a suicide prevention resource centre.

Other Offices:

Befrienders Ipoh (4pm-12am)
No. 8 Jln Sybil Kathigasu Fair Park 31400 Ipoh Perak,
Tel: 05-5477933/55

Befrienders Malacca (7pm-10pm)
No. 35A, Jln Munshi Abdullah 75100 Melaka
Tel: 06-2842700

Befrienders Penang (5.30pm-10.30pm)
104-1A Mewah Court Jalan Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim 11600 Pulau Pinang
Tel: 04-2811108/5161

Befrienders