THE government will look into the establishment of an independent commission to better safeguard the well-being of children in the country. 

Law and Institutional Reform Minister Azalina Othman Said said the commission was significant in overseeing matters concerning the welfare of children, such as safety, education and health. 

She said such matters are currently overseen by the Malaysian Human Rights Commission’s (Suhakam) children’s commissioner. 

“I will prepare a cabinet paper for it them to be given the freedom to stand on their own feet as an oversight body because the issue of children does not only cover crime,” she told reporters in Kota Tinggi today. 

Azalina said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has agreed to the appointment of a new Suhakam children’s commissioner, whose name will be presented to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for His Majesty’s consent. 

Azalina said discussions will be held with Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek soon to organise programmes to boost understanding and awareness of children’s rights so they do not end up victims of crime. 

She also said there is a proposal for additional special criminal courts on sexual crimes against children. – Bernama, January 7, 2023.