MPs react to new Bill on child sexual crimes

Strong backing: The MPs pledging their support for the Sexual Offences Against Children Bill 2017.

Members of Parliament finally got their hands on the long-awaited Sexual Offences Against Children Bill, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

At a press conference co-organised by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said and The Star’s R.AGE team, MPs and ministers from various parties came together to show their support for the Bill.

Here’s what they had to say:

“We’re doing this step by step. What is most important now is that the Bill becomes an Act. It will serve as a warning to all the child sex predators out there - you can run, but you can’t hide. I hope on April 3, we can get all 222 MPs to support the Bill.” — Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department and Pengerang MP

“The MPs who don’t support this Bill have lost their humanity. [...] I’ve met many child victims, and it just breaks your heart that something sordid has happened to them, and yet the perpetrators are let off scot-free. This is a crucial issue. We can celebrate the coming together of Opposition and Government today.” — Nurul Izzah Anwar, Lembah Pantai MP

“(Child sexual crimes cases) have to be handled differently. We have to consider the emotional needs of the child, who might be traumatised. But this Act will not only protect children, but educate adults who must be alert and keep a closer eye on their children. [...] Awareness is veryimportant.” — Senator Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun, Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development and Senator

“I am supportive of the Act and the amendments. The outreach of social media and communication tools need to be taken into account to better protect our children. I applaud The Star and R.AGE’s role in campaigning and playing an active role in educating the public and getting support for the Bill.” — Datuk Chua Tee Yong, Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister and Labis MP

“This is an issue of humanity. Children are the future. In light of TN50, we cannot sideline the children. We have to eradicate crimes, especially sexual crimes against children. When the Prime Minister himself promoted this Bill, I believe his intention is for it to be tabled and debated in Parliament. It’s one of the transformations that he is aiming for - a healthier civil society. Today’s joint press conference showed a healthy democracy at work, maturity in politics, and that the MPs are together in the context of unity for Malaysia, for the betterment of the people.” — Datuk Seri Irmohizam Ibrahim, Kuala Selangor MP

“It’s not just female MPs who are here, there are many male MPs supporting as well, so I hope the Bill will be passed in this sitting. I really have to congratulate The Star for playing a big role in pushing for this Bill, and thank all the NGOs and concerned journalists who made this happen.” — Teresa Kok, Seputeh MP 

“I’m a big fan of R.AGE! You’ve been championing issues for the youth, and you should continue doing it. You’re fast becoming the voice of both urban and rural youth. And you try to influence the government through engagement and policies. The fact that you’re here in Parliament shows that you care about the Act.” — Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Dahlan, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department and Kota Belud MP

“We have a very well-trained child unit in the police force, and I’ve had very personal interactions with many of these officers, including ACP Ong Chin Lan, who pointed out some of the loopholes in the law on child sexual violence. That’s why I brought it up in Parliament two years ago. I’m glad this new Act will address some of them, but more comprehensive solutions are needed with regards to enforcement, the court system, how victims are treated and so on.” — Zairil Khir Johari, Bukit Bendera MP

Find out more about R.AGE's Predator In My Phone campaign against child sexual crimes here.