KUCHING: The Social Welfare Department (JKM) will fulfil its child protection responsibilities in the alleged neglect case involving a kindergarten in Langkawi, despite regulatory oversight of kindergartens falling under the Ministry of Education (MOE).
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said JKM’s protection officers are working with the District Education Office (PPD) while police continue their investigation into the case.
“We in JKM cannot escape our responsibility when it comes to protection,” she told reporters after a site visit to the Pending jetty connecting to Kampung Muhibbah, here today (July 18).
Police are investigating the case under Section 31(1) of the Child Act 2001 following a report lodged by a former teacher who was dismissed from the kindergarten recently.
The allegations include children being made to sleep on the floor without mats, with some reportedly locked in a toilet. So far, no parents have lodged reports claiming their children were injured, while investigators are examining CCTV recordings and taking witness statements.
Nancy explained that kindergartens are registered and regulated by the PPD, unlike childcare centres (TASKA), which come under JKM’s direct jurisdiction.
She said the ministry has advised the kindergarten’s management to suspend any further action until the police investigation is completed and urged parents to cooperate with the authorities to ensure their children’s safety.
Nancy also revealed that JKM has issued a reprimand to the kindergarten’s operators over childcare and safety standards after images showing children lying on mats at the centre circulated on social media.
Asked whether the affected children would be relocated, she acknowledged the difficulties faced by parents if the kindergarten is their only nearby option and appealed for patience while investigations continue.
She added that JKM protection officers would visit the premises to prepare reports, which could later be used as evidence should the matter proceed to court.
