SEREMBAN: The Islamic Development Department (Jakim) has been urged to play an active role in the probe of sexual abuse allegations and other claims of wrongdoing involving children rescued from 20 welfare homes in two states.
Pertubuhan Generasi Aspirasi Pemimpin Wanita Malaysia (GAP.MY) president Puan Sri Bibi Sharliza Mohd Khalid said the NGO hoped all the premises being investigated would be put through a rigorous inspection process to weed out any elements of abuse, exploitation, or religious manipulation.
Her remarks followed allegations that have been circulating widely on social media since 402 children – 201 boys and 201 girls aged between one and 17 – were rescued from care homes in Selangor and Negri Sembilan on Wednesday (Sept 11) in a rescue operation codenamed Ops Global.
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"It is crucial that we adopt a cautious and comprehensive approach in addressing this issue.
"While the raids have been conducted and individuals have been detained, the investigative process must continue with full transparency," she said in a statement on Friday (Sept 13).
Bibi Sharliza, who is also Juasseh assemblyman and wife of former Negri Sembilan mentri besar Tan Sri Mohd Mohd Isa Abdul Samad, said she was concerned about the allegations involving certain centres in the state, particularly in Kuala Pilah.
She hoped that a thorough investigation would be carried out to ensure that every aspect of the alleged exploitation of children was addressed.
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"What makes this situation all the more shocking are allegations that such exploitation happened under the guise of institutions entrusted with educating, caring for, and protecting these young individuals," she said.
Bibi Sharliza added that no party should be allowed to exploit vulnerable individuals, least of all those that misuse religion as a shield for immoral acts.
Bibi Sharliza said the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) should also actively oversee the investigation process and give recommendations to the government to ensure that the rights of all children are protected.
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"Furthermore, we urge immediate emphasis on implementing comprehensive sexuality education for our children regarding safe and unsafe touching.
"This includes educating children about their rights when it comes to their bodies, and how to report (their concerns)," she added.
