Harsher penalties for child abusers proposed

The Children’s Commission Bill, which will be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat in October, proposes appropriate punishment for child abusers, according to Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. The Minister emphasized the importance of implementing the bill effectively and in accordance with the Child Act, as it is responsible for safeguarding the interests of children. She expressed the desire for child abusers to face severe punishment, even though the implementation of the law is not under her ministry.

Nancy Shukri stated the need for understanding between her ministry and the commission to avoid overlapping responsibilities. She explained that the proposal for severe punishment, such as whipping, was not made recklessly, as it was the result of comprehensive discussions. The Minister made these remarks during the Segulai Sejalai Family Love Tour Programme, as reported by Bernama.

Under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act, individuals, parents, or guardians found guilty of abusing, neglecting, or mistreating a child can be fined up to RM50,000 and face 20 years’ imprisonment. The Children’s Commission Bill, to be presented by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, was drafted after engaging with stakeholders, exchanging knowledge, and conducting in-depth studies.