Minister Urges Parents to Claim Their Children
PETALING JAYA: Thirteen children out of the 560 rescued from charity homes linked to Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH) have yet to be claimed by their parents, says Women, Family and Community Development Minister Nancy Shukri.
Unclaimed Children Under Care of Social Welfare Department
Nancy said that these 13 children are under the care of the social welfare department, with six housed under Section 30(1)(d) of the Child Act 2001, while the remaining seven are under interim orders.
Parents’ Initial Interest, Later Backout
"We have contacted their parents and asked them to come to court to sign the necessary documents for their children’s return," she said. "Initially, they were interested, but later changed their minds, possibly due to advice from certain parties considering legal action against us," she was quoted as saying.
Progress Made in Reuniting Children with Families
According to Nancy, 536 children have been reunited with their families, while 11 are now under the care of guardians. She had previously encouraged parents to approach the ministry to discuss regaining custody of their children and said the ministry had no hidden agenda against parents yet to do so.
Primary Goal: Welfare and Safety of Children
"We carry out our duties under the law. I urge parents who have had a change of heart to come forward and provide us with complete information about their children," she said. "The best decisions must prioritise the children’s well-being. While we provide care, nothing can replace the love of a parent," she added.
Background on Child Care
Nancy said the 560 children had been placed in shelters after the welfare department obtained a temporary two-month custody order from the court under Section 25(2)(a) of the Child Act 2001.
Conclusion
As the minister responsible for the welfare of children, Nancy’s primary goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of the children. While progress has been made in reuniting some children with their families, there are still 13 children who have yet to be claimed. The minister is urging parents who have changed their minds to come forward and provide necessary information to regain custody of their children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current status of the children rescued from charity homes linked to GISBH?
A: Thirteen children out of the 560 rescued are still under the care of the social welfare department, with six housed under Section 30(1)(d) of the Child Act 2001 and the remaining seven under interim orders.
Q: Why have some parents changed their minds about claiming their children?
A: According to the minister, some parents may have been advised by certain parties to consider legal action against the ministry, leading them to change their minds.
Q: What is the primary goal of the ministry?
A: The primary goal of the ministry is to ensure the welfare and safety of the children, while providing care and support to families.