PUTRAJAYA: Overcrowding beyond the permitted capacity is a frequent offence committed by unregistered childcare centres identified by the Social Welfare Department.
Its director-general, Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan, stated that unlicensed daycares often have an insufficient number of caregivers who also lack the necessary skills to care for children, posing safety risks.
He said it was also common for unregistered childcare centres not to comply with the minimum requirements set by the Social Welfare Department, local authorities, the Fire and Rescue Department and the Health Ministry.
"The premises frequently do not comply with established safety standards, including building suitability, lack of closed-circuit television (CCTV), insufficient emergency staircases, exits, or emergency doors and fire prevention equipment.
"We the Social Welfare Department strongly urges all parties operating childcare centres to register, ensuring that all necessary facilities are provided for the safety and well-being of those involved children,” he said in a recent interview with Sinar Harian.
Che Murad also urged parents to ensure that their chosen childcare centre is registered.
Operators running unlicensed centres may face action under the Childcare Centres Act 1984 (Act 308), which includes closure orders, fines and prosecution.
Che Murad said premises that persist in operating without registration may be fined up to RM10,000.
He also said that the Women, Family, and Community Development Ministry has launched an initiative for the public to identify whether a premise is registered.
The Registered Taska Plaque initiative featured a QR code that contains details of the operator and the validity period of their certification.
“All childcare centres registered with the Department are required to employ caregivers who have passed examinations, undergone skills training and been equipped to calmly handle emergency situations through practical training conducted by certified training agencies,” he said.
As of March, there are 3,266 childcare centres registered with the department that comply with the requirements under Act 308, the Childcare Centres Regulations 2012, and the relevant guidelines in force.
