Selangor records over 3,700 child sexual crime cases over five years

SELANGOR recorded 3,747 cases of sexual crimes involving children between 2021 and 2025, with rape cases accounting for the highest number at 1,845, the state legislative assembly was told.

Selangor Women Development and Community Welfare Committee chairman Anfaal Saari said physical sexual abuse cases accounted for 1,654 cases, followed by non-physical sexual abuse cases with 156 cases.

She said 42 cases involved the possession of child sexual abuse material, while 24 cases involved the production or distribution of such material.

"Physical sexual abuse cases have increased by 70 per cent since 2021, and this consistent year-on-year rise is a worrying development," she said in response to an oral question from Sungai Ramal assemblyman Mohd Shafie Ngah during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly sitting.

Anfaal said the state government had expanded advocacy programmes through cooperation with the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS), religious schools, the Selangor Association of Tahfiz Institutions (PITAS) and schools across the districts to ensure more students received education on personal safety.

"The Lindung Kasih Advocacy Programme emphasises education on safe touch practices and introduces the Talian Kasih 1599 helpline so children know the channels available to seek assistance or make complaints to counsellors and authorities.

"In addition, Wanita Berdaya Selangor continues to implement the Campaign Against Violence Towards Women and Children throughout the year to ensure public awareness is continuously strengthened," she said.

Anfaal added that 20 per cent of child sexual crime cases occurred within school areas, describing the figure as deeply concerning and requiring immediate action.

She stressed that addressing child sexual crimes required a comprehensive approach involving the government, educational institutions, parents, communities and influencers, rather than placing the responsibility solely on educators.

"To me, this is an emergency call for all of us to play our part together in protecting children," she said. - August 4, 2026