KUALA LUMPUR: The proposal to introduce a RM500 first-time marriage incentive for youths in Perak should not include those below the age of 18, says the Office of the Children's Commissioner in the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam).
At the same time, it acknowledged and appreciated the state government's intention to help young people address the financial and social challenges associated with starting a family.
"We take note of media reports regarding the proposal to introduce the first-time marriage Incentive for youths aged between 15 and 35 for consideration under the Perak state budget 2027," it said in a statement on Sunday (Aug 30).
"We recognise that a 15-year-old may fall within the definition of 'youth' under certain development policies or legislation.
"This differs from a child rights perspective.
"Under Section 2 of the Child Act 2001, a person below the age of 18 is a child.
"Being categorised as a 'youth' should not diminish or override the need for children to receive special protection afforded to them under child rights standards."
ALSO READ: Perak considering RM500 first-time marriage incentive for youths
It expressed concern that including children aged 15 to 17 among potential beneficiaries of a marriage incentive could send a policy message inconsistent with efforts to prevent and eliminate child marriage.
"While the intended purpose of the incentive is to ease the financial burden of young couples, providing a financial benefit specifically linked to marriage may indirectly create a perception that marriage during childhood is accepted, supported or encouraged.
"Policies and programmes that affect children should be assessed through the lens of the best interests of the child, including consideration of both the direct and indirect impact on their lives," it said.
It also urged the Perak government to consider legislative reform to establish 18 as the minimum age of marriage for both Muslim males and females.
ALSO READ: Community leaders urged to play role in preventing child marriage
The Office recommended that a child's best interests be given primary consideration when finalising any proposal on marriage incentives.
"Children must be given an opportunity to express their views, which must be taken into account in matters affecting their lives.
"The proposal should be considered within the context of Malaysia's recent strengthening of its education framework.
"The proposed inclusion of individuals aged 15 to 17 in a marriage incentive scheme should be carefully considered, as this age group remains within the period of secondary education," it said.
The Office added that restricting eligibility for the marriage incentive to those over 18 would help ensure that the assistance aligns with a child rights-based approach.
ALSO READ: Tackling child marriages
"Social support for children below 18 who are at risk of (being married off owing to) economic hardship should be provided before marriage is even considered.
"Poverty and low household income have been identified as common drivers contributing to child marriage in Malaysia.
"The Federal Government's support and intervention must be in place sooner to circumvent considering marriage as a potential solution to families' economic deprivation," it added.
It suggested directing such assistance towards high-risk families through financial support measures to ensure that children remain in education.
"We urge the state government to review the proposed age eligibility before the proposal is finalised or considered under its 2027 budget," the Office added.
Perak education, higher education, youth and sports committee chairman Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah had said earlier that the proposed assistance would target youths aged 15 to 35, in line with the definition of youth under the Youth Development and Sports Act 2007.
He said the proposal reflected the state government's concern and commitment to easing the financial burden faced by young people entering marriage.
