SEREMBAN, April 23 — The public, especially abuse and neglect victims, including children, are advised against sharing videos about it on social media to be used as content, but instead report them directly to the authorities or the Talian Kasih hotline at 15999.
Women, Family, and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said ministry officials face challenges in investigating such cases because there is a lack of detailed information when incidents are only shared on social media platforms.
She added that the local community plays a crucial role in safeguarding children and knowing the appropriate steps to take when they are exposed to or involved in situations of abuse and neglect.
“We urge the public not to simply share content on social media platforms. That is why we have provided the hotline number 15999.
“We encourage them to utilise this service fully so that we can conduct thorough investigations and identify the location, the individuals involved, and other pertinent details.
“All parties must be vigilant about children’s rights. If any suspicious behaviour is observed, whether it is abuse within the family or elsewhere, it is crucial to seek immediate assistance.
“Contact the Talian Kasih hotline at 15999 or reach out via WhatsApp at 019-2615999. Alternatively, seek help from neighbours,” she said.
Nancy was speaking to the press after officiating the ‘Kasih Kanak-Kanak’ child protection advocacy programme with 800 participants, including primary school students, today.
Also in attendance was Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad.
Nancy stressed the importance of providing comprehensive information when filing complaints to facilitate prompt investigations and gave assurances that personal details will be kept confidential.
“To date, we have received numerous complaints, and the round-the-clock hotline has proven to be invaluable.
“Therefore, individuals can reach out, and we will connect them with experienced counsellors. The key is to report incidents promptly, and we will ensure thorough investigations,” she said.
Citing statistics from the Social Welfare Department, the minister noted a rise in cases of child abuse and neglect, which reported 7,520 children in need of care and protection last year, with 405 cases in Negeri Sembilan alone.
“Teachers, too, play a vital role as trusted figures. Children often turn to them when faced with challenges at home.
“Teachers need to maintain that trust. Otherwise, it undermines the support system for children,” Nancy added.
Today’s advocacy programme aims to mobilise various sectors of society, including parents, teachers, Parent-Teacher Associations and local communities, to ensure the continuous protection of children’s rights.
The programme targets a total of 300 schools, spanning multiple states like Negeri Sembilan, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Kelantan, Sabah, and Sarawak, highlighting the necessity for collaboration among all stakeholders, given the ministry’s inability to address these issues single-handedly.
— Bernama
