THE government is planning to impose harsher penalties and introduce more comprehensive provisions under the Child Act 2001 to better safeguard minors against abuse and sexual crimes, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
The Home Minister said the proposed amendments are meant to protect children from various forms of abuse, amid growing concerns over child safety following recent cases such as Global Ikhwan Sdn Bhd Holdings (GISB) and the “Abang Bas” incident on TikTok.
“These improvements aim to close any legal loopholes and ensure broader protection for children from various forms of abuse, including technological and cyber-related issues.
“The provisions related to punishment, especially for guardians responsible for neglect or physical, emotional or sexual abuse of children, will also be tightened,” he said in a parliamentary written reply.
Saifuddin Nasution was responding to Oscar Ling Chai Yew (PH-Sibu) who had asked about the government’s plan to improve enforcement of the Act to curb recurrence of such cases.
Other key measures include the establishment of Special Courts for Sexual Crimes Against Children nationwide, designed to handle cases more sensitively and expedite the trial process, thus reducing trauma for child victims.
“The government also aims to empower the Welfare Department with more trained officers to identify early signs of child abuse, especially in institutions like shelters and schools,” Saifuddin Nasution said.
The minister also said the government intends to tighten child protection policies in educational and care institutions, ensuring staff and guardians are trained to identify and handle abuse or violence cases.
“Closer cooperation with enforcement agencies and NGOs will strengthen the reporting process, evidence collection and early action against suspects, ensuring immediate assistance to victims,” he said.
He added that children’s self-protection education programme in schools will be expanded, focusing on educating children about their rights, personal safety and how to recognise and report suspicious or dangerous situations.
On a related matter, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said amendments to the Childcare Centre Act 1984 (Act 308) are expected to be tabled next year.
She said the ministry, through the Welfare Department, is actively reviewing the Act to ensure it meets current needs and standards.
“A special project team has been appointed. Among them are experts and members knowledgeable in matters related to childcare centres (taska).
“A coordination meeting was held regarding the current status of the review,” she said in her reply to Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (PN-Rantau Panjang).
Noraini said a focus group discussion workshop on amendments to the Child Act and Act 308 was also held, involving officers directly engaged in child case management.
“The involvement of industry stakeholders was sought to ensure the review is comprehensive and not solely from the perspective of the enforcers.
“A public survey was also conducted to ensure the involvement of the general public.
“Input from engagement sessions that will be explored include introducing new childcare centre categories like taska for disabled children, mobile caregivers, implementing an electronic registration system, reducing bureaucracy and streamlining the appointment of enforcement officers and technical agencies,” she said.
