Seremban: A babysitter has been detained for six days to assist in the investigation into the death of a seven-month-old baby boy at a house in Bandar Sri Sendayan. The incident occurred last Tuesday, and the remand order for the 38-year-old woman is set to last until May 25. The case is being probed under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Seremban police chief ACP Azahar Abdul Rahim stated that the post-mortem results are still pending, which will help determine the cause of the incident. The investigation is ongoing. Media reports indicate that the baby was under the babysitter's care when he was believed to have become unconscious. Despite being taken to a nearby clinic and subsequently to Tuanku Ja'afar Hospital, the child was pronounced dead following unsuccessful cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) efforts.

The investigation revealed that the baby was put to sleep in a cradle and given a silicone pacifier at the time of the incident. Meanwhile, Negeri Sembilan Social Welfare Department (JKM) director Muhammad Yusry Che Dah confirmed that the childcare centre was operating without registration or approval under the Child Care Centre Act 1984. Preliminary reports indicated that several children were under the woman's care, leading authorities to order the premises to cease operations.

Muhammad Yusry emphasized the importance of choosing registered childcare centres to ensure children's safety and compliance with established regulations. He highlighted that most incidents involving child fatalities or injuries occur at unregistered facilities. He urged parents to prioritize safety over cost when selecting childcare services.

Additionally, he encouraged babysitters and childcare workers to attend the free Asuhan Permata course available in the state. The course aims to educate them on safe childcare practices and handling emergency situations effectively.