KUCHING: The Social Welfare Department is providing psychosocial support to a pregnant teenager in Kabong, Sarawak, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
The Women, Family and Community Development Minister said a protection officer from the department visited the 16-year-old victim to offer assistance and support upon being informed of the case.
"The victim is expected to give birth next month. She is currently in the care of her family," she told reporters after launching the state-level Mother's Day celebration here on Monday (May 25).
Nancy said the officer would also assess the need for the teenager and the baby to be placed with suitable individuals or institutions should there be any elements of neglect in their care.
"The officer's report is important for us to obtain a court order and identify a suitable person to care for the girl and baby," she said, adding that the case was still under police investigation.
A 22-year-old man was detained on Sunday (May 24) to assist in investigations after a report was lodged by a medical officer who examined the victim at the Kabong health clinic on Friday (May 22).
