THE Human Rights Commission of Malaysia children’s commissioner (CC) Prof Datuk Noor Aziah Mohd Awal is saddened by the abuse case of Bella – a 13-year-old girl with Down syndrome – at a home in Wangsa Maju, Kuala Lumpur, reported earlier this month.
A Facebook user had in a post claimed that Bella, the home’s owner and its staff, as well as several residents tested positive for Covid-19. Further inspection revealed that Bella also showed signs of being physically abused and traumatised.
The CC is thankful that police and the Social Welfare Department responded quickly and proceeded to investigate the case, which is currently pending review of the deputy public prosecutor to undertake further legal action.
The Office of the Children’s Commissioner would be monitoring the progress of the case to ensure the child victim is provided with the necessary protection and treatment, in view that the child and all those infected have since been admitted for treatment at hospital.
The CC strongly urges that all measures be taken for the perpetrator to be charged as soon as possible.
It is also equally concerned at how Bella’s story has turned viral, with multiple images and videos of the girl being circulated online.
The media and public should be reminded that it is a violation of Section 15 of the Child Act 2001 (Act 611) to publicly share photos or videos that show the identity of a child victim. This is also pursuant to Article 37(a) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which has been ratified by Malaysia in 1995, which clearly states that “No child shall be subjected to degrading treatment”.
The CC appeals to the public to not disseminate the child victim’s identity any further, as her dignity must be well-protected and preserved.
By virtue of Article 23 of the CRC, the CC urges the government to ensure children with disabilities are not only entitled to the protection and assistance of the state, but also allowed to fully participate in society.
Children with disabilities have the right to express their opinions, participate in decision-making that affects them, receive inclusive education, and be protected from violence and abuse like everyone else.
It is our hope that such cases will not be allowed to recur in future, and that the dignity and well-being of every child shall be actively protected at all costs. – The Vibes, July 16, 2021
Prof Datuk Noor Aziah Mohd Awal is Human Rights Commission of Malaysia children’s commissioner
