SAMARAHAN: A total of 572 cases of child abuse and neglect were reported in Sarawak from January to June this year, says Women, Family and Community Development Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Nancy added that, according to the Sarawak Social Welfare Department (JKM Sarawak), 45 of these cases were recorded in the Samarahan Division alone.
“This number reflects only the cases that have been reported, and the actual figure is likely to be higher due to unreported incidents.
“Our officers have worked diligently and effectively to detect these cases, and we continue to work closely with the police and other relevant agencies to protect them,” she said.
She said when officiating the Child Protection Advocacy Programme: KASIH Children Samarahan Division Level 2025 at Student Pavilion Multipurpose Hall, UNIMAS here today.
She highlighted that the KASIH Programme, which focuses on child protection and welfare awareness, has been rolled out nationwide since 2024.
“In Sarawak, 25 schools have joined the programme so far, reaching more than 5,500 participants.
“Nationally, the programme surpassed its target of 300 schools last year and aims to reach 3,300 schools this year.
“And perhaps while reaching over 10,000 schools may take a few more years, we are speeding up the process by combining primary and secondary schools,” she added.
In the Samarahan Division, the programme has already engaged 400 students from SK Muara Tuang and SMK Kota Samarahan.
“This year, we will double our efforts, another 300 schools will be involved throughout Malaysia. This is not just a single ministry’s project but a national movement,” she said.
Nancy also announced that the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) will expand the establishment of 30 more Children’s Activity Centres (PAKK) nationwide, involving on-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community leaders.
“This is a good programme for children to gather after school, especially if no one is at home.
“This initiative is important to provide a safe and friendly space for children to play, learn and grow while discovering new talents, especially when no one is at home,” she said.
She also called on the public to remain alert and proactive in protecting children, pointing out that not all cases are reported.
“Children have the right to live safely and with dignity. If you know of any child facing abuse or neglect, please report it immediately and share our helpline number, 15999.
“Besides JKM, we also have the police, hospitals, and the One-Stop Crisis Centre (OSCC) ready to assist victims, especially in cases involving sexual abuse,” she urged.
