Kuala Lumpur: A new fatwa aimed at enhancing the protection and welfare of abandoned children, known as foundlings (al-laqit), is necessary, as resolved by the Muzakarah on Human Rights Issues from the Maqasid Syariah Perspective. This event was organized by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this resolution was one of four adopted during the muzakarah, which was announced by SUHAKAM Commissioner Datuk Mohamad Nordin Ibrahim. The resolution underscored the persistent issue of abandoned children in the country and called for a concerted effort by the government, religious institutions, and society to address this matter.
The resolution emphasized the government’s responsibility to ensure that the care, welfare, protection, and safety of these children are prioritized until they reach adulthood and are capable of independent living. This is based on the principle of safeguarding life, intellect, and dignity.
Additionally, the muzakarah proposed the establishment of a sustainable and comprehensive mechanism to address child marriage cases, aiming to prevent more significant harm. It supported setting the minimum marriage age at 18, aligning with the Child Act 2001 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) 1989.
Other key resolutions included the adoption of alternative sentencing focused on rehabilitation and addressing refugee issues. It recommended reviewing the implementation of whipping punishments and expanding alternative penalties in line with Islamic principles of mercy and discipline.
Regarding refugee issues, the muzakarah recognized rescuing and ensuring the welfare of refugees as a collective religious duty. It urged the government to expedite legal reforms to secure refugees’ access to protection, education, healthcare, and family rights in Malaysia.
To facilitate detailed discussions on these resolutions and other issues, SUHAKAM plans to establish a technical committee chaired by one of its Commissioners, involving multiple stakeholder agencies.