KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Health Department has stated that there have been no instances of newborn babies being snatched away from their stateless mothers in any of its health clinics or hospitals. Department director Dr Asits Sanna has refuted a recent report by a news portal on September 15, which claimed otherwise and alleged multiple similar cases in the Lahad Datu hospital. The report indicated that in three documented cases, two mothers were able to regain custody of their babies, while another mother who was at risk of losing custody was found deceased with her child.
Dr Asits stated that an immediate investigation has been initiated to address these claims, and it has been determined that no such cases exist. He emphasized that all patients who visit government health facilities are treated with equal respect and rights in accordance with the constitution. For abandoned or neglected children, the hospital refers such cases to child protectors under the Children’s Act 2001.
Furthermore, Dr Asits confirmed that a police report has been filed at the Lahad Datu police station on September 16 to deny the validity of the reported claims. He expressed the department’s willingness to fully cooperate with any necessary investigations that may follow. Dr Asits asserted that the department is committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of all its clients, emphasizing that they take such claims seriously.
In addition to the police investigation, the department will also conduct its own probe into all claims, reports, and complaints to enhance its services to the community.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
