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Malay Mail
27-05-2025
- General
- Malay Mail
Alleged abuse victim, 12, to enter state custody as no relatives found fit, says Penang Welfare Dept
GEORGE TOWN, May 27 — A 12-year-old girl who was allegedly abused by her parents will be placed in a government-run care centre once she is discharged from hospital, according to the Penang Social Welfare Department (JKM). State JKM director Zakaria Taib said the decision was made after discussions with the girl's immediate relatives revealed that none were willing or suitable to take her in. 'Following consultations with both sides of the family, it was clear that they were unable or unfit to care for the child. As such, she will be placed in the custody of a registered care facility overseen by the department,' he said when contacted today. The girl remains in Penang Hospital where she is reported to be in stable condition. She is also receiving counselling amid concerns she may be suffering from emotional trauma following the incident. Zakaria said the department is now in the process of obtaining a court order to formalise her placement once she is discharged. 'This is the most appropriate solution at this time, given the current family circumstances. The court will ultimately decide on custody, but our priority is the safety and welfare of the child,' he added. Police had earlier detained a couple, aged 47 and 49, after the girl was found with bruises and lacerations on her back. She is believed to have been caned at the family's home in Sungai Ara. — Bernama
Malay Mail
25-05-2025
- Malay Mail
Penang Welfare Dept to shelter girl in abuse case if no willing relatives found
GEORGE TOWN, May 25 — The Penang Social Welfare Department (JKM) is likely to place a girl suspected of being abused by her parents under its care if no close relatives are available to look after her. State JKM director Zakaria Taib said the department is still actively tracing the Year Six student's closest relatives or next of kin who are willing to look after the girl, as they hope she can be raised within her family environment. 'The Year Six student is still receiving treatment at Penang Hospital, and efforts to locate her closest relatives willing to care for her have so far been unsuccessful. 'JKM will not force any relatives to take responsibility for her. However, if no willing relatives are found, we will place the victim in a welfare institution under JKM's supervision as a last resort,' he said when contacted today. He said the girl's 15-year-old brother has been living with their grandmother in Balik Pulau since childhood and is in good health. Zakaria added that, according to information received by the department, the girl had lived with her grandmother during her early childhood. However, due to certain circumstances, her father later took her in and became her caretaker. Previously, media reported that the police arrested a couple last Tuesday to assist in the investigation of a girl who sustained bruises and cuts on her back, believed to have been caused by caning in an incident at a house in Sungai Ara near here. — Bernama
