KLUANG: No one has the right to exploit a child's weaknesses or shortcomings, let alone hide behind religion or welfare, says Che' Puan Mahkota Khaleeda Johor.
She added that she was informed of the incident involving some charity homes suspected of exploiting, neglecting and torturing 402 victims aged from one to 17 years old.
Che' Puan Mahkota Khaleeda congratulated the police who conducted "Op Global" with assistance from the Welfare Department, Health Ministry and Chemistry Department in investigating and unearthing the criminal activities in question.
“I would also like to thank several social activists and other individuals who raised the issue over the past few months, thus helping the authorities' investigation into the charity homes involved.
“Such cruel acts shall not hide behind religion. Any attempt to use religion as an excuse for inhumane acts not only insults the law but also taints the sanctity of a religion,” she said in a Facebook post here on Thursday (Sept 12) night.
Che' Puan Mahkota Khaleeda also said that religion, regardless of belief, should be the basis for love, protection and well-being of a society, especially children.
She added that every religion demands justice for those who were unable to defend themselves.
“Therefore, when this kind of heinous crime occurs, it is the responsibility of all of us to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice without any compromise.
“In addition to legal action, I hope the government takes proactive measures to strengthen the monitoring of charity homes and childcare institutions,” she said.
Che' Puan Mahkota Khaleeda also said measures should include the process of periodically auditing and monitoring to prevent any crime from reoccuring.
She urged all parties including the authorities, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the public to play a role in protecting children from any form of abuse.
“I also hope that the authorities ensure that the 402 victims are in a better and secure condition. Rehabilitation measures as well as psychological and social support must be provided immediately to help them recover from the traumatic experience of being exploited.
“No one has the right to exploit a child's weaknesses or shortcomings, let alone hide behind religion or welfare,” she added.
