PARENTS have been reminded to exercise heightened caution during the monsoon season and to ensure that children do not play in flood-affected areas, which pose significant dangers despite appearing harmless.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said that while splashing in floodwaters has become a routine activity for some families, it remains extremely risky and can lead to tragedy.
“We do not want moments of fun to turn into tragedy. Parents must be more vigilant about their children’s movements. Always watch your children and do not allow them to play in hazardous areas,” she said.
Nancy was speaking after attending the 2025 National Children’s Day Carnival at the grounds of Masjid Darul Ibadah in Kampung Sampadi, Kampung Sempadi, Lundu.
She also commented on the disappearance of two young girls in Kampung Pasir Pandak, Santubong, yesterday — an incident she said should serve as a warning to all.
Both girls, Humaira Qalesya Mohd Dir and her cousin, NurAshafieya Aisyah Abd Nasri Asrafie, were reported missing after failing to return from playing near their grandmother’s home. They were last seen at 9 am and were found safe nearly 24 hours later.
Nancy expressed relief at their safe recovery, noting that “this incident must remind us that children’s safety cannot be taken lightly.”
Responding to remarks by Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) president Siraj Jalil regarding the low level of public understanding of child-protection laws, Nancy emphasised that her ministry continues to carry out extensive advocacy programmes.
“Our ministry conducts various initiatives, including the ASEAN ICT Forum on Child Online Protection 2025, to raise public awareness of child protection,” she said.
She added that advocacy efforts — in partnership with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Education Ministry (KPM) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) — aim to reduce children’s exposure to digital risks.
She stressed that existing laws are adequate, but require strong cooperation from all parties, including non-governmental organisations, to enhance public awareness. - December 7, 2025
