Sitiawan case raises questions on scale of child trafficking in M'sia, says Wanita MCA
The Wanita MCA national chairman also said details of the case were particularly alarming because it occurred within a broader network of sexual exploitation, as the perpetrator had regularly transported the victim to specific locations, suggesting that certain areas have become hotspots for such activities.
'This troubling reality raises questions about the scale of child trafficking within the country and demands an immediate investigation on other potential locations where similar crime may be occurring.
'Such places must be identified, monitored and swiftly shut down to prevent further harm,' said Wong in a statement on Wednesday (June 25).
Wong also said it is important to recognise that the root cause of child sexual exploitation lies not only in the actions of traffickers, but also in the demand for such activities.
'As long as there are individuals who seek to exploit children for sexual gain, this cycle of abuse will continue," she said.
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Therefore, Wong said it is essential that those who purchase such services are held as accountable as those who are facilitating the trafficking.
'Without addressing both the 'supply' and 'demand', efforts to combat trafficking will remain incomplete,' she said.
At the same time, Wong said it is important to ensure that strong legal frameworks are in place, as this will provide clear and stringent penalties for those involved in trafficking, exploitation and abuse.
'Equally important is the need for education and awareness campaigns that inform the public about the signs of trafficking and exploitation, so that communities are better equipped to identify and report suspicious activities.
'If the girl involved had more community support, perhaps she would have been saved sooner and she would not have to endure such a nightmare for three years,' said Wong, who added that it is essential to strengthen support services for victims so they can rebuild their lives.
Wong said the fight against child sex exploitation and trafficking is one that requires the commitment of all segments of society.
'It is vital that we act now to safeguard vulnerable children and ensure that this crime is eradicated once and for all,' added Wong.
On Tuesday (June 24), a single mother pleaded not guilty to two charges of trafficking her biological daughter for sexual exploitation over the past three years.
The housewife was accused of trafficking her 17-year-old daughter at the time of the incident for sexual exploitation at a flat in Sitiawan, Perak, between 2022 and Sept 3, 2023.
She is charged under Section 14 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act (ATIPSOM) 2007, which provides for a maximum life sentence or a maximum of five years imprisonment and whipping upon conviction.
She is also charged under Section 12 of the same Act, carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years'[ imprisonment and a possible fine.
The court granted the accused bail of RM7,000 with one surety for each charge and it set July 31 for the next mention date.
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