HIGHER public awareness and increased intervention efforts have led to a surge in the number of child abuse cases being reported in Penang, says state Welfare Department director Rozita Ibrahim.
She said a total of 697 child abuse cases were reported between January and August this year, reflecting a growing trend across all districts.
This compares with 578 reported cases last year and 398 cases in 2023.
Rozita said the recorded cases fell into four main categories.
“The first category is children in need of protection and care, such as those abused, exploited or trafficked.
“The second group is children requiring protection and rehabilitation, including victims of sexual abuse, prostitution or pregnancies.
“Then there are minors involved in crimes who cannot be sentenced as adults, and last but not least, children who are beyond their parents’ control,” said Rozita.
She told reporters at Komtar, George Town, that the increase was partly due to greater public awareness through various campaigns and intervention programmes, as well as population growth.
“Currently, there are 9.8 million children in the country.
“Reports can be made through the Welfare Department, the police or schools.
“There are sometimes discrepancies between police and Welfare Department statistics, as some cases are first reported to the police and only referred to the department after being verified as genuine.
“Each case requires a thorough process, including medical checks for confirmation,” she said.
The north Seberang Perai district recorded the highest number of cases among districts in Penang.
Rozita attributed this mainly to lower levels of awareness in some less-developed areas compared to urban districts.
She explained that children aged seven to 12 were the most vulnerable, accounting for the highest number of reported abuse cases.
“Most of them are cases of neglect under Section 17 of the Child Act, involving parents who are unable to provide sufficient care.
“Resolving child abuse cases can be a lengthy process, often taking more than three years.
“We need to monitor the progress of each victim closely and in some cases, the children are handed over to their closest guardians, such as other family members, for care,” she said.
Penang social development, welfare and non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said the high number of reports also reflected improved community vigilance.
“Many victims in the past did not know where to seek help and were afraid to come forward.
“Now, we have many non- governmental organisations actively engaging communities to raise awareness,” she said.
Some cases are still under investigation or being monitored, while others involve children who have been moved to safe places, Lim added.
“The rise in numbers shows that more people are aware and willing to report.
“This is a positive sign, but it also shows the work we still need to do to address the issue within society.”
Lim said there was a need to create a safe environment that encourages people to come forward and make reports.
The First Support Point initiative serves as the initial help line for victims, especially women and children, offering a safe and supportive environment for them to seek assistance, she said.
The public can reach out to Talian Kasih 15999, or 019-261 5999, a 24-hour helpline provided by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, for immediate counselling or to report any suspected abuse.
She encouraged neighbours and community members to take action if they witness abuse cases.
“This is not nosy, but being caring. Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility, and every report or concern can make a real difference in saving a child’s life,” she added.
