THE Social Welfare Department (JKM) has rejected claims circulating on social media that it had sought assistance from a private individual to place a child under their care, describing the allegation as inaccurate and misleading.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the department clarified that no official placement had been made with the individual in 2020, contrary to what has been alleged online.
It explained that the child’s care arrangement was a private agreement between the biological mother and the individual, carried out without the department’s involvement at the time.
According to the department, its first involvement in the matter came later, on April 29, 2022, when it received a referral to provide advisory services concerning the child’s care status and related documentation.
Following the referral, the department said it conducted investigations and a comprehensive assessment in line with the best interests of the child and in accordance with the provisions of the Child Act 2001.
It added that on Aug 3, 2022, the Court for Children issued an order concerning the individual’s role in the child’s care until the child reaches the age of 18, taking into account a statutory declaration from the biological mother consenting to the arrangement.
The department stressed that all cases under its purview are managed in strict compliance with the law to ensure the protection and welfare of children.
“The department ensures that every case referred is handled in accordance with the relevant legal provisions to safeguard the welfare of the child. In this regard, JKM advises all parties not to engage in speculation or make statements that could cause misunderstanding about its role and the well-being of the child involved,” the department said.
It added that it remains committed to carrying out its responsibilities with integrity, professionalism and full adherence to the rule of law. - April 22, 2026
