KUCHING: Parents dissatisfied with court rulings in sexual abuse cases have been advised to seek redress through the proper legal channels.
The advice follows a recent case in which a caretaker at a children’s welfare home pleaded guilty at two Ampang Sessions Courts last Thursday (Apr 9) to 15 charges involving physical and non-physical sexual abuse, as well as unnatural sexual acts against five boys.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said while the ministry understands the concerns and emotions of affected families, the legal process must be respected as court rulings fall outside its jurisdiction.
“If parents are unhappy with the decision, they may file an appeal through the appropriate channels,” she said when met at the Outreach WCaRe: Pemerkasaan Komuniti Etnik programme at Kampung Pasir Panjang here today (Apr 11).
She added that the ministry could raise concerns with the Attorney-General’s Chambers, but stressed that the final outcome rests within the legal system.
Nancy described sexual abuse involving children as a serious issue that requires continued attention from all parties, stressing that the protection and welfare of children remain a priority.
“If there is a need for intervention, it will be discussed at the government level, including with relevant agencies,” she said.
However, she cautioned against making premature statements on cases that have already been decided by the courts.
She also added that any views on sentencing must be based on a thorough understanding of the full court judgment.
