KUALA LUMPUR: In a strong call to action, the Police Chief has urged society to take decisive steps against crime and prioritize the protection of children. Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Razarudin Husain emphasized the need to prevent crime from being normalized within our communities and emphasized the importance of equipping the public with effective strategies to combat crime, particularly when it involves innocent children.
When approached for comment, Tan Sri Razarudin stated that the primary objective of the police force is to put an end to crimes against children. He emphasized that everyone within the community must take a proactive stance, not only by actively opposing offenders but also by protecting each other.
This statement comes after the Statistics Department released data revealing a significant 12.8% decrease in child-related crimes in 2022, with 3,013 cases reported compared to the previous year’s 3,457 cases. However, the statistics also revealed a 9.5% rise in sexual crimes involving children, increasing from 1,481 cases in 2021 to 1,621 cases in 2022.
Tan Sri Razarudin stressed the importance of crime awareness campaigns as a vital initiative to encourage all parties to join forces in combatting these crimes. He emphasized the need for the target audience to have a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to crimes against children, such as the existing risks associated with children, as well as the appropriate methods and actions that various stakeholders should take to safeguard children effectively. These campaigns also aim to cultivate self-control in children, helping them protect themselves.
Through the implementation of various initiatives, the police force intends to reduce crimes against children significantly. Tan Sri Razarudin reiterated the importance of community involvement and stressed that every individual has a role to play in preventing and addressing crimes against children.
As the police chief calls for action, it is evident that tackling crimes involving children requires a collective effort from society as a whole. By fostering awareness and equipping community members with the appropriate knowledge, it is hoped that crimes against children can be curbed effectively.
