Physically-challenged teenager found in pathetic state

Civil Defence personnel examining the boy at the flat in Nilai

SEREMBAN: A physically-challenged teenager was found in a pathetic state at a flat in Taman Semarak, Nilai early Saturday.

Muhammad Firdaus Dullah, 15, was found in a flat by state Immigration officers during a four-hour Ops 6P operation from 2am.

The boy was weak and emaciated and the room where he was living was littered with soil and faeces.

State welfare, women and family development committee chairman Datuk Norhayati Omar said Muhammad Firdaus is reported to be in satisfactory condition at the children's ward of the Tuanku Jaafar Hospital here.

"The doctor has examined him. His condition is not worrying as he was free of fever or cough," she told Bernama after visiting the teenager.

Police are investigating the matter to determine if there were elements of abuse and neglect in the boy's case.

"Muhammad Firdaus will be under the care of the state welfare services department, pending a full report from the hospital," added Norhayati.

In PUTRAJAYA, the women, family and community development ministry has directed the welfare services department to conduct a detailed investigation on the matter.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim, said if it was proven there were elements of neglect pertaining to the boy - believed to be suffering from cerebral palsy - he would be placed in a shelter run by the welfare department.

"He and his mother are from Sabah. His parents have divorced. However, his mother has denied he was confined and neglected.

"We will give serious attention to the welfare of the boy," she said in a statement. - Bernama