Azalina: Those who ignore child abuse can be fined RM5k

Individuals who are aware of sexual abuse involving children but fail to lodge a police report can be fined up to RM5,000 under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 (Act 1972), if found guilty.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Azalina Othman Said said in efforts to curb sexual offences against children, enforcement measures need to be aggressive and firm, including charging those close to the victims like teachers, neighbours who are aware of such an occurrence, under Section 19 of the act...