Puncak Borneo MP calls for stronger community role in tackling social issues

KUCHING (Sept 24): Communities must play a more active role in identifying and addressing social problems at an early stage, particularly cases involving child abuse, domestic violence and neglect, said Puncak Borneo MP Datuk Willie Mongin.

He said early intervention required cooperation beyond the government and Social Welfare Department (JKM), involving families, community leaders, government agencies, authorities, educational and health institutions, as well as non-governmental organisations.

“This approach is very important because many social issues can be addressed more effectively if they are identified at an early stage.

“For example, the community needs to know what action can be taken if they become aware of child abuse or neglect, domestic violence or the neglect of those requiring protection.

“This awareness and knowledge are important because each of us has a role to play in ensuring the safety and welfare of the community are always protected,” he said.

Willie said this in his speech at the opening of the Social Welfare Act Advocacy Programme 2026, organised by the Kuching Social Welfare Office and Puncak Borneo Parliamentary Office at Dewan Persatuan Biperoh Kuching on Wednesday.

He said social legislation was not solely about enforcement but was also an important instrument to ensure vulnerable groups received their rights, assistance and appropriate services.

Among the laws involved were the Child Act 2001, Domestic Violence Act 1994 and Persons with Disabilities Act 2008, he added.

Willie also disclosed that 37 domestic violence cases had been reported to the Kuching Divisional Social Welfare Office so far this year, compared with 43 cases in 2025 and 32 cases in 2024.

Meanwhile, he said 16 child cases in the Padawan area had been referred under the Child Act 2001 this year.

He said the figures highlighted the need for continuous attention and action to protect children, domestic violence victims, senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

Willie said participants of the advocacy programme should also serve as information disseminators in their respective communities.

“The more members of the community understand their rights, responsibilities and channels to seek assistance, the easier it will be for us to build a caring community that is able to respond appropriately when facing social issues,” he said.

He said the programme should also serve as a platform for sharing experiences, exchanging views and strengthening cooperation between JKM, relevant agencies and communities.

“We all have a responsibility to ensure that vulnerable groups are not marginalised. Children must be protected. Senior citizens must be respected and cared for. Persons with disabilities must be given appropriate space and opportunities. Victims of violence must receive protection and support.

“And every individual in need of welfare assistance should know that there are channels they can access.

“These are among the important values that we need to strengthen through social advocacy,” he added.