PUTRAJAYA must ensure access to education is available to all children, including by reducing the digital gap, said the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia today.

Suhakam’s child commissioner Prof Noor Aziah Mohd Awal said children must have the opportunity to achieve their full potential through education.

The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in children facing many challenges, including financial instability and inability to join online schooling because of a lack of technological facilities, she said.

“Financial assistance during Covid-19 should be extended post-pandemic to ensure every child is able to live with adequate means.

“All children should have access to primary healthcare and vaccines should be made available to every child,” she said in a statement in conjunction with World Children’s Day today.

The government must also introduce new initiatives to stop violence against children, she added.

This is in view of the increased number of cases of mental health and violence against children during Covid-19.

“They also face emotional stress and risks of being victims of physical violence.”

Noor Aziah said between January and November 14, Talian Kasih received a total of 1, 847 calls related to children.

Children in conflict with the law also experienced multiple health risks because of poor and unsafe conditions in detention centres.

“Finally, I would like to emphasise that children have the right to be heard, respected and treated with love and affection. Let us work together to create a better world for all children.” – November 20, 2020.