Ministry to ensure all childcare centres comply with law after child abuse allegation goes viral

Nancy speaks during a press conference at KPWKM’s Kasih Ramadan programme at Pullman Hotel, Kuching on April 9, 2023. Photo credit: Ukas

By Nur Ashikin Louis

KUCHING, April 10: Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) will ensure that all childcare centres nationwide comply with all the conditions stipulated under the law after a nursery accused of child abuse was ordered to close temporarily.

According to a report by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Malaysian Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri said the step is important to make it easier for her ministry to detect if there are other cases similar to the previous case that went viral recently.

“From time to time, we will continue to improve in terms of regulations and we have reviewed the guidelines with our staff to facilitate them in carrying out their duties.

“In addition, we reinforce the terms and conditions of service to those who are in our childcare centres and ensure that they comply with all that,” she said in a press conference during KPWKM’s Kasih Ramadan programme held at Pullman Hotel here last night (April 9).

Nancy who is also Santubong MP further said apart from teaching staff, childcare centre guidelines would be extended to volunteers to ensure that they understand what they need to do based on the approved and updated conditions.

Last Thursday (April 6), a Facebook user claimed her 13-month-old daughter sustained minor injuries on her body while under the care of a childcare centre.

On April 8, the ministry issued a statement saying that the centre which is registered with Community Welfare Department (JKM) has been ordered to close for improvement in quality of childcare services and in providing a safe environment for children.

The ministry also expressed its readiness to work together with the police to ensure that the baby who was allegedly abused would get justice. — DayakDaily