BUTTERWORTH: The Social Welfare Department has been keeping a watchful eye on a six-year-old abused victim who was rescued by her neighbours last year.
A close relative is now her legal guardian, and department staff drop by periodically to check on her, said a spokesman.
“The court empowered the department to monitor her welfare until it is satisfied that she is doing well,” added the spokesman.
Unable to stand hearing the little girl’s screams in February last year, her neighbours took her to the police station and lodged a report.
Doctors later found she had two broken teeth, bruises all over her body and a swollen left eye.
MIC central working committee member J. Dhinagaran, who is among the kind folk to give material support after her rescue, has also been visiting the girl, who now lives in Kepala Batas.
“Our last visit was in March. We drop by every few months to make sure she has everything she needs.
“She’s cheerful now and is having a normal life,” said Dhinagaran.
He added that it was heartening to see an abused victim rescued and recovering well.
“We will always be grateful to the neighbours who knew about the abuse and took action.
“If they did nothing, the story could have ended differently,” he said.
The girl’s mother, Malathi Raman, 41, was charged with abusing her under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a maximum fine of RM20,000, a jail term of up to 10 years or both upon conviction.
She is currently on bail awaiting trial.
The girl’s father is in jail for a drug-related offence.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
