Holistic approach urged to ensure child safety

SHAH ALAM - Children are society's most vulnerable members, and their safety requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond individual actions.

Yayasan Chow Kit (YCK), co-founder Dr Hartini Zainudin said that a combination of several approaches can help reduce crime cases, thereby enhancing the safety of vulnerable groups in society.

She said that encouraging community participation in security programmes is necessary, as well as providing incentives to those who provide information related to crime or suspicious activities.

"Monitoring on social media is also necessary to detect any security issues or threats that may arise in the community.

“In addition, enhance law enforcement against crime, including more frequent police patrols in identified areas and taking firm action against perpetrators," she said when contacted on Monday.

Hartini also suggested providing psychosocial support to families affected by such acts.

According to her, this support includes counselling, emotional support, and financial assistance if needed.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) Chairman Datuk Noor Aziah Mohd Awal said families and the closest communities need to play a role by taking responsibility for the care of children whose parents are dealing with mental health issues.

She said this action can save the child from becoming a victim of mental or physical abuse that could result in death.

"Do not take it lightly, if family members are aware of the condition of the parent to the children who have mental health problems, then they need to be treated.

“They are not deprived of the right to care for their own children, but they cannot be in a state of stress that endangers themselves and others around them.

“They can also seek help from close relatives to live together to provide moral and physical support in carrying out parental duties," she added.