Latest news with #VelanKunjuraman
The Sun
17-07-2025
- The Sun
Calls for tougher measures after alleged infant rape
PETALING JAYA: A crime almost too horrific to name – a three-month-old infant allegedly raped. As public outrage deepens, a sociologist is calling for chemical castration to be introduced in Malaysia, arguing that the justice system must respond with equal force to the unimaginable violence inflicted on children. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said such a measure reflects both the severity of such offences and growing public frustration at their recurrence. Chemical castration involves administering medication to suppress libido and sexual activity without surgically removing sexual organs. Dr Velan said the measure is not unprecedented, with several countries having introduced it in response to similar crimes. 'South Korea became one of the first Asian countries to introduce chemical castration for repeat child sex offenders in 2011. 'Poland and Russia have provisions for mandatory chemical castration in certain child abuse cases. In the United States, states such as California and Florida permit it for repeat offenders. Indonesia also introduced it as part of its Criminal Code amendments in 2016 following a series of brutal child rape cases,' he said. Malaysia, to date, has not adopted chemical castration. Current punishments focus on imprisonment, caning and mandatory registration in the sex offender registry. 'Although the idea has periodically surfaced in public discourse and even in Parliament, especially following high-profile cases of child sexual abuse, it remains unlegislated,' Velan said. From a sociological perspective, he said, chemical castration could serve both symbolic and functional purposes in preventing abuse. 'Symbolically, it sends a strong message that society will not tolerate the sexual exploitation of children. 'Functionally, for repeat offenders or those with diagnosed sexual disorders, such a measure may reduce the risk of reoffending.' However, Velan stressed that any implementation must be grounded in a legally sound and ethically robust framework. 'It would need to be carefully regulated, medically supervised and embedded within a rights-based legal structure to ensure justice and due process are upheld.' He also warned against viewing punitive measures as the sole solution, urging society to confront the deeper sociological roots of such crimes. Commenting on the case revealed by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on Wednesday, Velan described it as both a criminal act and a profound societal tragedy. 'This heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case involving the sexual abuse of a three-month-old infant is not only a criminal act – it's a profound social tragedy. 'From a sociological lens, it reveals a society grappling with deep-rooted moral decay and social deviance.' Despite Malaysia's religious and culturally conservative values, Velan said the persistence – and apparent escalation – of such heinous crimes signals a breakdown in moral and social safeguards. 'The incident exemplifies anomie, a term coined by Emile Durkheim, to describe the collapse of societal norms and moral guidance. 'When individuals become disconnected from communal values, they may be drawn to deviant subcultures, particularly online, that normalise or even commodify extreme sexual violence.' To address this, Velan called for multi-layered reforms – from families and schools to community institutions and national policies. 'Families must be supported through parenting education, mental health services and economic stability. 'Schools should include comprehensive values and sexuality education to foster responsible digital behaviour from a young age. 'Community groups, religious institutions and civil society must work together to rebuild a culture of care, vigilance and moral accountability.' Velan also urged stronger action on digital literacy and online safety. 'A national strategy is urgently needed to regulate online content. This includes stricter surveillance of child exploitation networks and public education campaigns on the dangers of the dark web,' he said.
The Sun
17-07-2025
- The Sun
Call for chemical castration after infant rape case in Malaysia
PETALING JAYA: A crime almost too horrific to name – a three-month-old infant allegedly raped. As public outrage deepens, a sociologist is calling for chemical castration to be introduced in Malaysia, arguing that the justice system must respond with equal force to the unimaginable violence inflicted on children. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said such a measure reflects both the severity of such offences and growing public frustration at their recurrence. Chemical castration involves administering medication to suppress libido and sexual activity without surgically removing sexual organs. Dr Velan said the measure is not unprecedented, with several countries having introduced it in response to similar crimes. 'South Korea became one of the first Asian countries to introduce chemical castration for repeat child sex offenders in 2011. 'Poland and Russia have provisions for mandatory chemical castration in certain child abuse cases. In the United States, states such as California and Florida permit it for repeat offenders. Indonesia also introduced it as part of its Criminal Code amendments in 2016 following a series of brutal child rape cases,' he said. Malaysia, to date, has not adopted chemical castration. Current punishments focus on imprisonment, caning and mandatory registration in the sex offender registry. 'Although the idea has periodically surfaced in public discourse and even in Parliament, especially following high-profile cases of child sexual abuse, it remains unlegislated,' Velan said. From a sociological perspective, he said, chemical castration could serve both symbolic and functional purposes in preventing abuse. 'Symbolically, it sends a strong message that society will not tolerate the sexual exploitation of children. 'Functionally, for repeat offenders or those with diagnosed sexual disorders, such a measure may reduce the risk of reoffending.' However, Velan stressed that any implementation must be grounded in a legally sound and ethically robust framework. 'It would need to be carefully regulated, medically supervised and embedded within a rights-based legal structure to ensure justice and due process are upheld.' He also warned against viewing punitive measures as the sole solution, urging society to confront the deeper sociological roots of such crimes. Commenting on the case revealed by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on Wednesday, Velan described it as both a criminal act and a profound societal tragedy. 'This heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case involving the sexual abuse of a three-month-old infant is not only a criminal act – it's a profound social tragedy. 'From a sociological lens, it reveals a society grappling with deep-rooted moral decay and social deviance.' Despite Malaysia's religious and culturally conservative values, Velan said the persistence – and apparent escalation – of such heinous crimes signals a breakdown in moral and social safeguards. 'The incident exemplifies anomie, a term coined by Emile Durkheim, to describe the collapse of societal norms and moral guidance. 'When individuals become disconnected from communal values, they may be drawn to deviant subcultures, particularly online, that normalise or even commodify extreme sexual violence.' To address this, Velan called for multi-layered reforms – from families and schools to community institutions and national policies. 'Families must be supported through parenting education, mental health services and economic stability. 'Schools should include comprehensive values and sexuality education to foster responsible digital behaviour from a young age. 'Community groups, religious institutions and civil society must work together to rebuild a culture of care, vigilance and moral accountability.' Velan also urged stronger action on digital literacy and online safety. 'A national strategy is urgently needed to regulate online content. This includes stricter surveillance of child exploitation networks and public education campaigns on the dangers of the dark web,' he said.
The Sun
08-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
Modern challenges of adult bonds
PETALING JAYA: While the phrase 'best friends forever' (BFF) is as commonly used by adults as teenagers, its meaning becomes more nuanced and sometimes bittersweet with age. What once symbolised endless laughter, shared secrets and unwavering loyalty gradually transforms into fleeting messages, occasional catch-ups and friendships shaped more by convenience than connection. As people move into their 30s and 40s, life becomes increasingly occupied with careers, marriage, children and caring for aging parents, leaving little space for the deep, spontaneous bonds of youth. For many, the once-cherished ideal of a lifelong BFF evolves into something more practical and at times, more distant. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said the nature of friendship has shifted in the fast-paced, globalised society of today. Speaking in conjunction with World Best Friends Day today, Velan said adult relationships in Malaysia have become increasingly situational and why the longing for meaningful connection still runs deep. 'While Malaysian adults in their 30s or 40s may refer to someone as a 'best friend,' in reality, many of these relationships have become more superficial,' he said, adding that adult friendships are no longer defined by constant interaction or physical presence, as they were in youth. 'The concept of a BFF evolves with age. It depends greatly on the personality, lifestyle and values of a person.' Velan said a major factor behind this change is the growing weight of adult responsibilities. 'Friendships in adulthood are influenced by multiple factors – career demands, business networks, entertainment preferences and emotional support needs.' While personal values play a role in shaping friendships, responsibilities such as marriage and parenthood often reduce the time and emotional capacity available for maintaining close social ties. 'Sometimes, these obligations create barriers to sustaining long-term friendships.' Social connections are increasingly built around proximity and convenience, such as relationships with co-workers, neighbours or members of local communities. Velan also highlighted the influence of collectivist culture in Malaysia, especially on women, adding that historically, cultural expectations place a heavy domestic burden on women, limiting their social interactions beyond the household. On the impact of migration for work, study or marriage, Velan acknowledged that such transitions could disrupt longstanding friendships. 'When women move into the household of their husband, cultural expectations may make it hard to maintain connections.' Velan said while some manage to stay in touch, many friendships fade as new routines and responsibilities take precedence. 'Technology, while beneficial, could also be a double-edged sword. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram and TikTok help adults stay connected. 'However, the nature of these interactions can sometimes feel performative or superficial, depending on how individuals engage with them,' he said, adding that forming new friendships in adulthood is also a growing challenge. 'Once people enter the workforce or take on family responsibilities, their social circles often shrink.' Adults may also become more selective in choosing friends, seeking those who share similar values or lifestyles. 'The absence of meaningful friendships in adulthood could negatively affect mental health, increasing the risk of loneliness, stress and depression. Friendship offers emotional support and a sense of belonging, both of which are essential for psychological resilience.'
The Sun
08-06-2025
- General
- The Sun
Why Adult Friendships Change: BFFs and Life's Realities
PETALING JAYA: While the phrase 'best friends forever' (BFF) is as commonly used by adults as teenagers, its meaning becomes more nuanced and sometimes bittersweet with age. What once symbolised endless laughter, shared secrets and unwavering loyalty gradually transforms into fleeting messages, occasional catch-ups and friendships shaped more by convenience than connection. As people move into their 30s and 40s, life becomes increasingly occupied with careers, marriage, children and caring for aging parents, leaving little space for the deep, spontaneous bonds of youth. For many, the once-cherished ideal of a lifelong BFF evolves into something more practical and at times, more distant. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said the nature of friendship has shifted in the fast-paced, globalised society of today. Speaking in conjunction with World Best Friends Day today, Velan said adult relationships in Malaysia have become increasingly situational and why the longing for meaningful connection still runs deep. 'While Malaysian adults in their 30s or 40s may refer to someone as a 'best friend,' in reality, many of these relationships have become more superficial,' he said, adding that adult friendships are no longer defined by constant interaction or physical presence, as they were in youth. 'The concept of a BFF evolves with age. It depends greatly on the personality, lifestyle and values of a person.' Velan said a major factor behind this change is the growing weight of adult responsibilities. 'Friendships in adulthood are influenced by multiple factors – career demands, business networks, entertainment preferences and emotional support needs.' While personal values play a role in shaping friendships, responsibilities such as marriage and parenthood often reduce the time and emotional capacity available for maintaining close social ties. 'Sometimes, these obligations create barriers to sustaining long-term friendships.' Social connections are increasingly built around proximity and convenience, such as relationships with co-workers, neighbours or members of local communities. Velan also highlighted the influence of collectivist culture in Malaysia, especially on women, adding that historically, cultural expectations place a heavy domestic burden on women, limiting their social interactions beyond the household. On the impact of migration for work, study or marriage, Velan acknowledged that such transitions could disrupt longstanding friendships. 'When women move into the household of their husband, cultural expectations may make it hard to maintain connections.' Velan said while some manage to stay in touch, many friendships fade as new routines and responsibilities take precedence. 'Technology, while beneficial, could also be a double-edged sword. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram and TikTok help adults stay connected. 'However, the nature of these interactions can sometimes feel performative or superficial, depending on how individuals engage with them,' he said, adding that forming new friendships in adulthood is also a growing challenge. 'Once people enter the workforce or take on family responsibilities, their social circles often shrink.' Adults may also become more selective in choosing friends, seeking those who share similar values or lifestyles. 'The absence of meaningful friendships in adulthood could negatively affect mental health, increasing the risk of loneliness, stress and depression. Friendship offers emotional support and a sense of belonging, both of which are essential for psychological resilience.' Cutline: With advancing age, youthful interactions may fade into occasional meet-ups and brief phone conversations. – theSunpix
The Sun
25-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
Fewer couples starting families amid shifting priorities
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is facing an unprecedented decline in birth rates, a demographic shift that experts warn could have serious consequences for the nation's economy, workforce and social cohesion. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia public health medicine specialist Prof Dr Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh attributed the falling birth rate largely to the high cost of raising children, particularly in urban areas. 'Years ago, families often had five children. Now, the average is three, and it could fall further to two or even one, much like the trend in Singapore. 'It's not just housing or food. Even providing nutritious meals is expensive. Parents feel pressured to enrol children in preschool by age three, followed by entrance exams, tuition and other academic demands – all of which add to the financial burden.' She added that environmental factors are also playing a growing role. 'Air and water pollution, including exposure to heavy metals from traffic and industrial waste, has been linked to reduced sperm quality in men. Fertility isn't just about biology, it's also about the desire to have children and both are declining.' She added that while dual-income households are now the norm, even two salaries often fall short of what is needed to raise a family. 'It's no longer feasible for the husband alone to support the household. The wife also contributes significantly to family expenses. Yet, starting salaries remain low, even for professionals such as doctors, engineers and teachers. In an upper-middle income country such as Malaysia, a minimum wage of RM1,700 is still inadequate for a growing family.' According to the Statistics Department, only 93,500 births were recorded in the first quarter of 2025, an 11.5% drop from 105,613 during the same period last year. It marks the lowest quarterly birth rate ever recorded. The department attributed the decline to falling fertility and warned of broader social implications. Meanwhile, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman pointed to deeper societal shifts, shaped by modernisation and globalisation, which have redefined perceptions of marriage and parenthood. 'Young people today prioritise financial stability, personal freedom and career success before starting families. Marriage, once a key life milestone, no longer holds the same weight.' He observed that highly educated, career-focused individuals increasingly view marriage as optional, with some choosing to remain childfree to enjoy life without the responsibilities of parenting. Velan also highlighted the rising divorce rate and growing acceptance of alternative relationships, such as live-in partnerships, especially in urban areas. 'Marriage remains an important ethical and legal institution, but its meaning and practice have evolved. Gender expectations still play a role, some women see marriage as a threat to their independence due to the traditional caregiving roles still expected of them. 'Today, successful families are founded on shared responsibility and mutual respect.'
