LIMBANG: The people are urged to speak up about any incidents of child abuse or neglect to ensure the safety of children.
Deputy Minister for Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, emphasised the critical need to promptly report such cases to the authorities or through the Talian Kasih hotline.
He expressed optimism that all sectors of society would unite to address social issues impacting children effectively, aiming to prevent a surge in child abuse and neglect cases.
“If you become aware of a child experiencing abuse or neglect, it is crucial to take immediate action by contacting the police or dialling Talian Kasih at 15999,” he advised.
These sentiments were shared during the ‘Child Protection Advocacy Programme: Love for Children’ recently launched at the SMK Limbang Hall.
The initiative sought to deepen children’s comprehension of circumstances necessitating care and protection, raise awareness about potential interventions by parents, guardians, children, and the community in such scenarios, and enable the Child Welfare Team (PKKK) to better grasp the requirements of children in their regions, fulfilling their duties in upholding children’s welfare and safeguarding.
Between January and July this year, Limbang Division reported 42 cases, encompassing instances where children required care and protection, minors involved in criminal activities, and pregnancies out of wedlock.
The Department of Social Welfare (JKM) has the Child Welfare Team (PKKK) and Child Protection Team (PPKK) on standby to coordinate local services for families and children in need of protection, rehabilitation, or juveniles convicted of offences.
