Title: Mother and Friend Arrested for Abusing 7-Year-Old Boy in Johor Baru
A seven-year-old boy in Johor Baru has been allegedly subjected to abuse by his own mother and her friend. According to Khairin Nisa Ismail, the state’s women, family, and community development committee chairman, the child had only been living with his mother for a year after moving from his grandparents’ home in Kedah.
Expressing her sadness over the incident, Khairin Nisa revealed that the child has been admitted to Sultan Ismail Hospital (HSI), and the authorities have taken the mother and her friend into custody for further investigation. The Johor Baru Welfare Department is actively collecting information on potential next of kin or qualified individuals to care for the child once discharged from the hospital.
The arrest took place in Pasir Gudang, with the police apprehending the 27-year-old mother and her 30-year-old friend. Two rattan canes were also seized by the authorities. While the mother has been remanded for six days until August 17, her friend is currently in custody until August 18 to assist with the ongoing investigation.
The case is being treated as a serious offense under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which addresses child abuse. If convicted, the offenders could face a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, a fine of up to RM50,000, or both.
Disturbing videos were circulated on social media, portraying the child with visible wound marks on his body. These videos led to harsh public criticism, with neighbors berating both parents for their alleged involvement in the abuse.
As this investigation unfolds, it is important to ensure justice for the victim and provide a safe and nurturing environment for the child’s future. The authorities are committed to gathering all the necessary facts and taking appropriate action against those responsible for this heinous act.
