KUALA LUMPUR: The rise in sexual crimes involving minors reflects a deepening moral and social crisis, says Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He said the trend points to weakening social control and deteriorating moral values, adding that there is also a lack of understanding of self-worth and responsibility among the young.
“This is not just a crime issue, it is a moral and social problem that demands immediate, holistic action,” he said on Sunday (Nov 2).
He said several factors are driving the trend, including excessive exposure to pornography on social media and peer influence.
Lee added that poor parental supervision and the absence of comprehensive sex and moral education in schools also contribute.
“In today’s digital era, children and teenagers can easily access inappropriate materials through their smartphones,” he said.
He said this often happens without filtering or proper guidance, adding that emotional neglect within families also plays a role.
“When young people do not receive love, attention or open communication at home, they may seek validation elsewhere,” he said.
He said this can lead them into risky or abusive relationships.
Lee called for a comprehensive and integrated response to tackle the issue.
He outlined measures including introducing comprehensive sex and moral education in schools, adding this should go beyond biology to teach respect, boundaries and responsibility.
“Training and support should also be provided for parents,” he said.
He said parents must be able to detect behavioural changes and monitor online activity.
“The authorities must strengthen monitoring of online platforms,” he said.
He said this is to curb pornographic content and sexual grooming activities.
He said communities, schools and NGOs should be empowered to run awareness campaigns and added that counselling and early intervention programmes are needed for at risk youths.
“Stricter laws against offenders and those who distribute explicit materials to minors are also a must,” he said.
Lee said preventing sexual crimes among minors cannot be left to law enforcement alone.
“This requires the collective effort of parents, educators and the community,” he said.
“Everyone has a role in shaping a safe, disciplined and morally grounded environment for our children,” he added.
He urged the Education Ministry and the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry to step up preventive measures.
Lee said this should include expanding counselling services and strengthening value based education.
He added that trained personnel should be deployed for early intervention in schools and communities.
“The moral and mental well being of our youth determines the future of our nation,” he said.
“Protecting them from sexual exploitation must be treated as a national priority,” he added.
He said this must be supported by a sustained, multi agency effort.
