KUCHING: Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah is worried about declining moral values in our society following rampant violent crimes locally.
“Last time, we seldom heard of murder cases. We did not hear much about domestic violence or sexual violence against children.
“But now instead, we hear of children (those below 18) raping other children. So, what is happening?” asked Fatimah after officiating at the Women Leadership Training Programme at Penview Hotel here yesterday.
She felt that her ministry needed to look into the moral values that were missing in children.
“We need to go back to the basic – instill good moral values in our children.”
According to Fatimah, this task should not just depend on parents but should also involve community leaders, religious bodies and other relevant parties.
“It takes all of us to bring up children with good moral values such as respecting others. This sounds very simple but it is very important to ensure the wellbeing of the society and to prevent more violent crimes from happening,” she added.
Fatimah said rampant violent crimes had caused fear and a feeling of being unsafe within the community.
She believed the police were working hard to bring those responsible to justice.
“As we progress and celebrate Sarawak’s Independence Day, we must also ensure there is social wellness in our community and state. This takes all of our efforts to achieve in our society,” she said.
Asked to comment on the two army personnel who have been missing since last Friday while on duty at Pulau Perak, Fatimah expressed her belief that the government was doing its best to locate them.
“We need to see what is going to happen in the next few days first. Only then can we tell what assistance we can provide.
“Now, all efforts are being made to look for them, and that is the priority,” she added.
