By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Jan 23: Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah has urged the public to allow the police to carry out their investigations into the alleged abuse case in Sibu, following widespread attention surrounding a viral letter linked to the matter.
Fatimah said the case is now under the jurisdiction of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and it is important that the investigation process is not disrupted.
“Since the case has already reached the police, it is best that we let them carry out their duties. We hope the relevant authorities can perform their responsibilities swiftly, efficiently and accurately,” she told reporters at a press conference held at Baitul Makmur 2 today.
She noted that the case involves a child who has unfortunately passed away, underscoring the need for prompt and thorough action by all parties involved.
Fatimah reiterated that her ministry maintains a firm stance against violence in any form, including physical and sexual violence against children and women.
“When we speak about children, this includes both boys and girls. Violence in any form is something we strongly oppose,” she added.
She stressed that preventing violence requires collective responsibility and begins with awareness and understanding of existing laws, including the Child Act, the penalties for abuse, and the steps victims and members of the public should take when such incidents occur.
According to Fatimah, reporting suspected abuse is a crucial first step in stopping violence from continuing.
“If anyone is aware of such cases, they must report them to the relevant authorities. Reports can be made to the police, school counselling teachers or the Social Welfare Department (JKM),” she said.
She added that once a report is received, immediate follow-up action must be taken to prevent further harm.
Fatimah also highlighted the importance of timely justice, noting that prolonged processes could undermine public confidence in the system.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. Beyond investigations, prosecution and court proceedings must also be carried out without unnecessary delay so that those found guilty receive appropriate punishment,” she said.
She expressed hope that decisive action by enforcement agencies and the judiciary would reassure the public that reporting abuse cases leads to swift and effective outcomes.
“This will help build confidence that when cases are reported, the system which includes from reporting and investigation to prosecution and sentencing, functions as it should,” she said.
Earlier today, Sibu District Police Chief ACP Zulkifli Suhaili said the police have launched a full investigation into allegations of abuse and neglect following the circulation of a viral letter purportedly written by a 22-year-old woman shortly before her death.
The woman died at Sibu Hospital on Jan 18 after battling cancer.
The letter, addressed to her father and shared online by her younger sister, allegedly details years of physical and emotional abuse inflicted by family members, drawing widespread public attention and concern over domestic violence and family welfare issues.
Zulkifli also confirmed that the police received a report on Dec 9, 2025, from a local woman who alleged she had been abused by her own family since 2013. – DayakDaily
