KUALA LUMPUR: The Alliance for a Safe Community has called for immediate and decisive action following the troubling rise in child sexual abuse cases and missing children.
Alliance for a Safe Community's Chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said every child who went missing is a tragedy for his or her family.
"What is more concerning is that many of these children are at risk of exploitation, including human trafficking and sexual abuse. These cases are not just isolated incidents, but part of a worrying trend that requires immediate attention," Lee said.
Child sexual abuse, whether perpetrated by strangers or people known to the victims, could leave long-lasting psychological and physical scars on the children involved.
"This is a heinous crime that we, as a society, cannot afford to ignore. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that children grow up in safe, nurturing environments," he said.
As a concerned community, Lee said we should consider several measures to ensure our children's safety, starting with enhancing public awareness and strengthening legislation and enforcement.
"Parents, guardians, and caregivers must be educated on the risks their children face and equipped with the tools to identify signs of grooming or abuse. We need community-wide campaigns to promote vigilance, both in public spaces and online.
"We also need stiffer penalties for those who commit crimes against children. Additionally, law enforcement agencies must be equipped with the right tools and training to locate missing children and investigate abuse cases swiftly," he said.
Lee added that mandatory reporting of abuse was essential at institutions like schools, religious organisations and recreational centres.
With online predators becoming an increasing threat, Lee also urged for stronger cybersecurity measures to monitor and combat illicit online activities targeting children.
"Parents must take an active role in monitoring their children's online activities. We should also consider implementing age-appropriate sex education programs in schools to teach children about personal boundaries and the importance of reporting inappropriate behavior without fear.
"It is crucial to empower children with the knowledge of how to protect themselves," he said.
"The Alliance for a Safe Community is also calling for governments to establish specialised task forces to handle cases of missing children and child sexual abuse.
"Adequate funding must be allocated to shelter homes, counseling services, and rehabilitation programs to support victims," he said, adding that neighbourhood watch programmes, community patrols, and volunteer initiatives can also serve as a first line of defense in child missing or abuse cases.
Lee's statement reinforces the need for all sectors of society — parents, educators, lawmakers, and law enforcement — to unite in a concerted effort to tackle these critical issues.
"Every child deserves to live free from fear, harm, and exploitation. The time to act is now, and we must all work together to protect our children's future," Lee said.