SHAH ALAM, Apr 4 — The Selangor government will establish a multi-agency task force and introduce stricter guidelines to clamp down on unregistered care centres, following the recent uncovering of abuse at an unlicensed children’s home in Selayang.
State executive councillor for women empowerment and welfare Anfaal Saari said the move is aimed at preventing similar incidents by strengthening enforcement and improving compliance among operators.
“The state government, together with the Social Welfare Department (JKM), local authorities, Fire and Rescue Department, and State Health Department (JKN) will establish a Care Centre Regularisation Task Force to identify, regularise, and take the necessary action against unregistered care centres across the state,” she said in a written response to Media Selangor.
She said this in response to news reports on police investigations into alleged sexual abuse at an unlicensed children’s home in Taman Selayang Permata, affecting dozens of victims aged between nine and 17.
According to the New Straits Times, medical checks revealed injuries consistent with both recent and past abuse. The home is believed to have operated for around a decade without obtaining a license from JKM.
Anfaal said apart from the task force, a care centre registration advocacy and compliance programme will be held in June to help operators meet legal requirements and encourage immediate registration.
“The state government will also launch the guidelines for care centres and nurseries for the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities (PWD) on April 16, which aim to help operators ensure their premises are properly registered and compliant with relevant safety and welfare standards.”
Commenting on the Selayang children’s home, Anfaal said JKM records showed the centre had never been formally registered since its establishment, despite previously seeking guidance from the department on its process.
She added that following complaints, the Gombak District Social Welfare Office has taken enforcement action and issued a Notice of Sealing to the premises on April 3 at 3.55pm.
The notice will take effect on April 6 at 11am to allow for the safe return of the children to their families, next of kin or a fit and proper person (OYLS).
Anfaal said the state government and JKM are also reviewing enforcement and cross-agency coordination mechanisms to identify any compliance gaps involving unregistered care centres.
On support for the victims, Anfal said all affected children are currently receiving necessary care, including medical treatment at the hospital, based on their respective needs.
“Upon discharge, the children will be safely reunited with their families, subject to assessment by the relevant child protection officers.
“JKM is also providing counselling and psychosocial support services to both the victims and their families to ensure their emotional wellbeing and recovery are properly addressed.”
She added that placement decisions for other residents would be made after investigations and final screening by the protector, with options including reunification with family members or placement under OYLS where appropriate.
