SEREMBAN: A childcare centre (taska) operating out of a house in Bandar Sri Sendayan has been ordered to close, following the recent death of a one-year-old girl who was under its care.
Negeri Sembilan Social Welfare Department director Muhammad Yusry Che Dah said investigations found that it was also operating without approval under the Child Care Centre Act 1984.
"Even if a daycare centre operates from a residential house, it must be registered with the department if it cares for four or more children. The department will conduct a detailed inspection before granting approval.
"In this case, the house is believed to have been operating for almost two years and, based on initial reports, there were six to seven children under the care of the nanny involved," he told Bernama here on Saturday (Dec 13).
Previously, Seremban OCPD Asst Comm Azahar Abdul Rahim said a one-year-old girl died after being taken unconscious to a private clinic in Bandar Sri Sendayan last Monday (Dec 8).
Initial investigations found that, before the incident, the victim was under the care of a 32-year-old nanny who was reportedly in poor health.
Azahar said a post-mortem examination revealed injuries to the child's abdomen, and the case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Yusry advised parents to ensure their children attend registered childcare centres to ensure they are cared for in accordance with established regulations, thereby reducing the risk of untoward incidents.
He also stressed that the department would not compromise with any operator who violates the law, as the safety and welfare of children remain a top priority. – Bernama
