Penang: The Penang Social Welfare Department (JKM) has launched a preliminary investigation into allegations that a father exploited his two young sons on TikTok. State Social Development, Welfare, and Non-Islamic Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim stated that JKM recorded a statement from the man, who is popular on social media, and also contacted his ex-wife, the children’s mother.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, JKM received a complaint through the Talian Kasih hotline at 9.30 am on September 2. The complaint alleged the exploitation of two boys, aged five and one, who were said to have been featured excessively on TikTok to generate income. This included content production, soliciting viewer ‘gifts,’ paid reviews, and meet-and-greet sessions.

Lim mentioned that the man denied the allegations, describing them as a misunderstanding and insisting that his children’s involvement was voluntary and casual. Initial investigations found no strong evidence that the children were forced or excessively exploited for profit.

Nevertheless, JKM has advised the father to ensure his children’s participation remains voluntary and age-appropriate. They also recommended limiting filming activities to avoid disrupting the children’s rest, education, or emotional wellbeing and avoiding exposure of their private lives. Lim emphasized that the father must prioritize the children’s best interests in line with the Child Act 2001 (Act 611), while JKM will continue to monitor the case.

Earlier, media reports indicated that the 33-year-old man was summoned to the Barat Daya JKM Office in Balik Pulau to provide a statement following the allegations. He was also accused of making his children work, acting harshly during live sessions, and pressuring them to engage with followers for income.