IPOH: Mosques nationwide need to have stricter measures to ensure the safety of children and prevent individuals from taking advantage of them, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
The Women, Family, and Community Development Minister said mosques need to have security measures in place or improve them.
"Mosques must improve their security measures and that those with close circuit camera (CCTV) facilities will utilise them effectively to ensure the safety of children at the mosque,” she said after opening the International Women’s Day 2025 celebration for the Northern Zone at a hotel here on Wednesday (Feb 26).
Nancy was asked to comment on an incident whereby an alleged sexual assault of a girl took place in the women's prayer section of a mosque in Batang Kali, Selangor last week.
A 19-year-old man, believed to have been involved, was arrested by the police.
Nancy said the case was being investigated by the police and urged the people not to share the video.
"Please stop sharing the video related to the incident, as it involves a minor.
"I urge the public to take this matter seriously and refrain from spreading such content,” she added.
Meanwhile, Nancy also said the ministry would host the International Women's Day celebration across five zones this year: Borneo, East, South, Central and North.
She said the main celebration, which would take place at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur on March 8, would be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Nancy also said that this year's Women’s Leadership Apprenticeship Programme (Perantis) targets 100 Malaysian women leaders, each receiving up to RM50,000 to support their programmes.
"Nearly 5,000 women participants are expected to join the programme, where they will receive mentorship from experienced women leaders and build professional networks to strengthen their leadership journey.
"Through Perantis, accomplished women or female figures will receive grant allocations to conduct leadership development programmes for women in various sectors,” she said.
"In 2024, 25 women’s leadership development programmes were held nationwide, benefiting 1,247 participants with an allocation of RM1.2 mil," she added.
