THE rise in child abuse cases since 2020 has led to the expansion of the Women’s Anti-Crime Squad (Waja Squad) to Waja Insaniah Squad and will act as first responders to assist in safeguarding children, Women, Family, and Community Development Minister Nancy Shukri said.

“The Social Welfare Department reported an increase in cases from 5,858 in 2020 to 6,144 in 2021 to 6,770 in 2022. Between January and May, the department handled 2,959 cases, involving abuse and neglect.

“The increase in cases is very concerning because most of them involve perpetrators who have close relationships with the victims,” she said in her speech at the 2023 Waja Insaniah Squad Commissioning ceremony in Kuala Lumpur today.

As of December 2022, Waja Squad – which empowers the community as well as addressing issues of violence against women – has a membership of 328,558. The ministry had begun recruiting members in March 2021.

“For the Waja Insaniah Squad, 330 participants were involved in the training from May to July last year. They were trained through a combination of the Waja Squad 2.0 Module and Child Protection Assistant Training by the department,” Nancy said.

Waja Insaniah Squad members were well-prepared to respond, Nancy said in a press conference after the event.

“We want them to handle complaints without becoming emotional. They will receive regular training to match different procedures. Despite similar situations, abuse cases can differ in approach. Later, more Waja Insaniah Squad members will be certified,” she said. – Bernama, November 2, 2023.