Alarming surge in child sex crimes: Govt, Malaysians must respond seriously, says Wanita MCA

Focus Malaysia

3 days ago

WANITA MCA has expressed grave concern over the sharp rise of sexual crimes against children in Malaysia, saying this deeply troubling trend demands urgent and coordinated action.
Its national chairperson Datuk Wong You Fong was responding to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's satement on Tuesday (July 29) about the increase in reported cases of sexual crimes against children from 2,541 in 2020 to 3,892 in 2024—a rise of 53.2%.
Calling on the government to implement a comprehensive, cross-ministerial strategy to address the crisis before it worsens, Wong said the figures are not just numbers but represents a real child, a family and a life affected by trauma.
Recently, a 14-year-old Chinese girl who had gone missing for over four days was found by police in Batu Pahat.
A 47-year-old man was arrested in connection with her disappearance. It is believed he lured her through an online game, using luxury goods and false promises.
'This case underscores the dangerous misuse of technology and highlights critical failings in both family and societal safeguards,' Wong stressed.
'Data presented by Zahid at the Malaysian National Social Council also revealed that the number of child victims increased from 2,561 to 3,988 during the same period—a rise of 55.7%.
'These alarming figures point to serious gaps in Malaysia's child protection system that must be urgently addressed.'
Wong further called for the establishment of a Child Protection Task Force, involving the Education, Home Affairs, Women, Family and Community Development as well as Communications Ministries, saying this task force should coordinate investigations, strengthen monitoring, and introduce targeted preventive measures.
'Other countries such as Australia, Singapore and Finland have already introduced cross-agency frameworks to prevent child sexual abuse,' she said.
'These include compulsory education in schools, clear protection and reporting systems, national databases to track high-risk individuals, enhanced digital investigation capabilities, and greater support for families.'
Wong also urged Putrajaya to fast-track the introduction of a 'Digital Action Plan for Child Protection', especially with the increasing complexity of online crimes involving deepfake technology and grooming.
She said it is vital that police and social workers are equipped to identify and handle tech-enabled sexual offences.
'While the government must lead, families and society play an equally critical role. Parents and carers are the first line of defence,' she remarked.
'They must strengthen children's understanding of personal safety, build trust, and create safe spaces for children to speak out. The public must also break the silence, report suspected abuse, and uphold a shared commitment to protecting every child.' ‒ July 31, 2025