THE government has introduced a set of special guidelines to handle sexual offence cases involving children, designed to ensure investigations and trials are conducted ethically, with sensitivity to the trauma experienced by young victims.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said today said the 2025 guidelines have been updated to reflect recent legal developments and the increase in new cases, particularly regarding child witnesses.
“The guidelines now emphasise four key components: ethical early reporting and investigation to minimise trauma for the victim, child-friendly court procedures including the use of video recordings and live-link technology, the appointment of witness supporters or legal companions to assist the child, and ongoing psychosocial support and post-trial rehabilitation,” she said at the launch ceremony at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya today.
Azalina added that regular training for investigators, prosecutors, judges, welfare officers, and healthcare professionals is also outlined in the guidelines.
“Although these guidelines are not yet legally binding, they provide an essential framework to standardise best practices across agencies and open the door for future mandatory implementation,” she said.
Developed through consultations and workshops held between January and August 2025, the guidelines promote a trauma-informed approach to justice, ensuring children involved as victims or witnesses in sexual offence cases receive appropriate protection.
Earlier in March, Azalina announced the enforcement of the amended Child Witness Evidence Act 2024 [Act 676], which was passed in the Dewan Rakyat on 11 July 2024.
“The amendments strengthen the protection and rights of child witnesses within Malaysia’s legal system.
“The Act now serves as the principal legislation outlining substantive provisions and procedures related to child witness testimony,” she explained. - October 24, 2025
