Punishment of sexual predators: Ensuring prevention through justice and the law

THE recent arrest of a medical officer in Penang for alleged sexual misconduct against a patient must be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate legal action must follow. Reports state that he instructed the patient to undress for a heart examination without the presence of a female nurse and secretly recorded her on his phone before being caught by hospital management.

This case highlights a growing concern about sexual predators in trusted spaces such as hospitals, schools, and care homes. While it is encouraging that such incidents are being reported, preventing future occurrences is just as important. Those who abuse their positions must face strict legal consequences, including significant prison sentences rather than minor fines.