PETALING JAYA: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry is taking the viral case involving an orphanage in Cheras, Selangor, seriously.
In a statement, the ministry said an inspection was carried out on April 10 by authorised officers from the Selangor State Welfare Department, Hulu Langat District Welfare Office, and the police D11 unit from the Kajang District Police Headquarters.
"Following the inspection, two caretakers were called to the Kajang Police Headquarters for further action.
"As an immediate step, the Hulu Langat District Welfare Office has issued an order to shut down the premises, and all children have been rescued," the ministry said in a statement on Friday (April 11).
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A total of 18 children — 12 boys and six girls — were taken to Kajang Hospital for medical check-ups. They were later brought to the district welfare office for preliminary screening.
The ministry, through the Welfare Department, will continue monitoring the situation and take appropriate follow-up measures to ensure the children's safety and wellbeing.
"The public is urged to report any suspected abuse cases via Talian Kasih at 15999, WhatsApp at 019-2615999, or by visiting the nearest District Welfare Office," the ministry added.
Sinar Harian recently reported that the Welfare Department rescued 18 orphans, aged 5 to 17, from a private care centre in Cheras following allegations of abuse.
Selangor’s Women and Community Development Exco, Anfaal Saari, confirmed that the operator is under police and Welfare Department investigation.
The case surfaced after a viral video claimed the children were confined like animals and denied access to gifts and donated items.
