Saratok: A Social Welfare Department (JKM) protection officer has been stationed at Saratok Hospital to ensure the safety and welfare of an 11-year-old girl suspected of being abused by her adoptive mother in Saratok recently. Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri stated that a counsellor has also been assigned to provide emotional support to the child.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the case is currently under police investigation, and the victim has been admitted to Saratok Hospital for medical treatment and examination. Discussions are underway regarding temporary placement arrangements for the child, and for the time being, no visits by any parties are permitted.

Saratok police chief DSP Mathew Manggie reported the arrest of a 47-year-old woman suspected of abusing her adopted child, resulting in physical injuries, at Taman Kim Hin, Saratok on February 5. The case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, following a police report lodged on February 7 by a teacher concerned about the victim's safety.

Meanwhile, Nancy emphasized that her ministry would continue to conduct advocacy programmes to raise awareness about abuse cases involving both adults and children. She highlighted the importance of these programmes in increasing awareness and promoting the Talian Kasih 15999 hotline to help protect individuals. Through this hotline, children are encouraged to seek help on their own initiative.