KUALA LUMPUR: The social welfare department (JKM) handled a total of 2,959 cases of child abuse between January and May this year, involving physical, sexual and emotional abuse.
In a statement, the women, family and community development ministry said the highest number of cases were reported in Selangor with 647 cases, followed by Sabah (333) and Kuala Lumpur (326).
It said the ministry has established 140 child protection teams, 133 child welfare teams, and 142 children activity centres, which act as its “eyes and ears”.
The ministry said it cooperated with the rural and regional development ministry, education ministry, and the police to hold advocacy programmes in local communities to raise awareness of child abuse.
“Any form of child neglect and abuse can be reported to Talian Kasih via 15999 or WhatsApp at 019 2615999, or any district social welfare office or police station,” the ministry said.