Kuala lumpur: Nursery operators have the right to decline accepting babies under one year old in situations involving safety, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. She emphasized that nursery operators are bound by law and should refrain from accepting or caring for babies if their safety cannot be assured.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nancy stated, “Every nursery has to comply with the relevant laws, so if they refuse (admission) on safety grounds, it should not be seen as their fault.” She highlighted the importance of children’s safety, explaining that nurseries sometimes refuse to accept babies to avoid being held responsible for any untoward incidents. Nancy shared these insights with reporters after attending the Alumni Talk Session during the Destini Siswa Week at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM).

Previously, Selangor Women Development and Social Welfare Committee chairman Anfaal Saari mentioned the state government’s intention to discuss the issue of nursery operators refusing to take in babies under one year old on safety grounds with the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry. The concern is that such refusals could lead parents to send their children to unregistered home-based childcare centres.

Nancy also advised parents to prioritize their children’s welfare and protection when choosing a nursery. She noted that the government offers tax relief for parents who send their children aged six and below to nurseries registered with the Social Welfare Department.