In a written parliamentary reply, she said the figure, which includes deaths due to neglect and negligence, is based on the social welfare department’s (JKM) enforcement records.

“There was one case per year from 2021 to 2023, and four cases in 2024,” she said.

Nancy was responding to Rodiyah Sapiee (GPS-Batang Sadong), who had asked about the number of deaths in childcare centres since 2021.

Rodiyah had also asked what the ministry had done about the reported death of a four-month-old infant at an unregistered childcare centre on Jan 3.

Nancy said JKM had shuttered the centre located in Bandar Saujana Putra for operating without proof of registration.

“The registration of childcare centres is dependent on compliance with the law and regulations, as well as the conditions set to ensure quality service is offered.

“Its purpose is also to reduce the risk of unwanted incidents for the sake of the children’s safety and well-being.

“Parents are encouraged to send their children to registered centres. They can check a centre’s registration status via JKM’s official website,” she said.

It was reported earlier that Selangor JKM ordered the closure of the centre in Bandar Saujana Putra, Kuala Langat, after police received a report on Jan 3 about an infant who was brought to a clinic unconscious by a nursery caregiver.