Malaysia to Involve Children in Decision-Making for Improved Child Justice
In an effort to enhance Malaysia’s child justice system, the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department plans to include children in its decision-making process starting next year. According to Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, the minister in charge, 94% of children in Malaysia are active internet users, and it is crucial to give them a prominent role in shaping their own futures.
Recognizing the significance of empowering children’s voices, Azalina stated, Instead of relying solely on adults for reporting and deterrence, let us equip them with the essential information and confidence to report any cybercrimes or incidents they or their peers may encounter. To commemorate World Children’s Day, the government aims to equip children with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape and make informed decisions while safeguarding themselves effectively online.
In line with Malaysia’s commitment to cybersecurity, the government emphasized the importance of digital safety at the recent Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit. Azalina further mentioned that the government is integrating child-centric cybersecurity measures as part of its national initiatives to protect its youngest digital citizens.
Moving forward, the government acknowledges the significance of including children in policy-making. The active participation of children in decision-making processes is fundamental to creating policies that genuinely meet their needs and concerns. With a focus on improving Malaysia’s Child Justice system, the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department will explore enhanced digital inclusiveness in the area of child protection, with a particular emphasis on involving children themselves by 2024.
Azalina highlighted the success of similar measures in countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States. In Malaysia, reporting mechanisms for children welfare have been made available through platforms such as Talian Kasih, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, as well as independent bodies like the Malaysian Human Rights Commission and non-governmental organizations like the Childline Foundation.
According to Azalina, digital safeguards for children are not just a collective responsibility but a promise we make to the future of our nation. By involving children in decision-making processes and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills, Malaysia is taking significant steps towards empowering children and ensuring their safety in the digital age.
