Minister urges public to report child abuse instead of filming for social media

Nancy signs the programme's poster during the launching ceremony.

SIBU, Aug 3: The public has been urged to prioritise reporting child abuse or neglect to the authorities rather than recording videos for social media.

Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri emphasized the importance of immediate reporting to the police or calling the Talian Kasih hotline at 15999.

Speaking at the ‘Child Protection Advocacy Program – Children: Love Children’ today, Nancy highlighted her ministry’s efforts to find effective solutions to social problems related to children and ensure their safety and protection.

“We are doing this to curb the increase in cases of child abuse and neglect in the future,” she stressed.

She outlined that children have the fundamental rights to life, protection, development, and participation.

“If any of these four rights are not given or taken care of, all children have the right to voice and ask for help from adults, such as teachers, parents, or neighbors,” Nancy explained.

She encouraged children to seek help without hesitation, emphasising the availability of the Talian Kasih hotline at 15999 for anyone in need.

The Santubong MP noted that the programme aims to increase children’s understanding of their need for care and protection and provide them with the knowledge to act in cases of abuse and neglect.

“It also gives exposure to children about actions that can be taken by parents, guardians, children themselves, or the community when involved in abuse and neglect cases,” she added. — DayakDaily