Why is child sexual abuse so prevalent in Malaysia?

Many young victims do not get the help they need to stop the abuse, or recover from it. Photo: Visualhunt.com

According to the Child Act 2001, a child is sexually abused if he or she is exploited for anyone’s sexual gratification. This includes being made to take part in or observe any pornographic, obscene photography, recordings, films or performances. Child sexual abuse affects one in 10 children in Malaysia, but it is a taboo subject that festers and thrives in the secrecy that shrouds it.

It’s hard for children to tell someone they have been violated, and adults often deny or dismiss their complaints. So, many young victims do not get the help they need to stop the abuse, or recover from it.