KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) has reaffirmed that minors involved in consensual sexual activity must receive protection, guidance and rehabilitation rather than face punitive measures.
Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the ministry’s stance follows recent public statements on cases involving underage sexual relations entered into willingly.
She stressed that all children, regardless of gender, deserve opportunities to learn from mistakes, heal and rebuild their lives free from long-term stigma and trauma.
“As children, they should be given space to recover and rebuild their lives without being burdened by lasting stigma or trauma,” she said, adding that emotional, cognitive and social development must be considered to help minors understand the consequences of their actions.
KPWKM will therefore prioritise counselling, education and structured support to secure the future well-being of affected minors.
Existing legislation and programmes that focus on intervention, protection and rehabilitation already align with this approach.
These include tiered systems offering both community-based recovery and institutional care through moral rehabilitation hostels and other facilities.
At the same time, Nancy underscored that adults bear primary responsibility to guide and protect children and must never exploit them.
Where evidence shows exploitation or abuse, she stressed, the government will ensure laws are enforced firmly and effectively against offenders.
She also warned that unfounded statements about the nature of children and their need for protection risk confusing the public.
Addressing such issues requires more than legal provisions; it calls for greater awareness, strong family institutions, and community involvement to nurture character and identity.
“KPWKM remains committed to working with all stakeholders to create a safe environment for every child.
“Every child deserves a second chance. The way forward is not through punishment, but through care, guidance and protection,” she said.
