SHAH ALAM, Jan 22 — Seven taska were levelled with penalties last year as they violated rules and laws on the operation of childcare centres, said state executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari.
She said enforcement actions included ordering these centres’ operations suspended or revoking their licences.
“(Operation) suspensions were carried out by the Social Welfare Department (JKM). If JKM approval is not obtained, the premises would not be allowed to operate, even if it has a valid business licence,” she added.
Anfaal said these actions were taken after inspections and monitoring by relevant agencies to ensure childcare centres operate according to established standards.
“The state government views seriously taska operators’ legal compliance, especially involving operational compliance and care centre governance,” she told Media Selangor.
She emphasised that enforcement was done in stages and based on the law, without compromise towards premises that fail to comply with the rules.
“The state government is also always performing the whitelisting of taska and preschools to ensure all premises are operating legally, are registered, and comply with enforcement agencies’ rules and licensing conditions,” she added.
Anfaal explained that this move is complemented by engagement sessions with taska operators, who are provided with clarifications on legal matters, licensing procedures, and the responsibilities of managing childcare centres.
“The state government has also allocated RM400,000 for the Care Centre Grant, with each premises entitled to receive up to RM5,000 for compliance and registration costs, as a continuous effort to ensure the valid and systematic operations of care centres,” she said.
Yesterday, a viral video showed an autistic child locked up in the nude at a care centre, which sparked widespread condemnation on social media.
Anfaal advised private preschool operators to comply with established rules, including by registering with relevant agencies, and to hire staff equipped with the skills to care for children with disabilities.
