A TOTAL of 175 babies, believed to be aged 12 months or younger, were rescued and given protection by the Social Welfare Department (JKM) throughout 2022 to 2025.
The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) said that cases of abandoned babies and children are categorised as children in need of care and protection under Section 17(1), Children Act 2001 [Act 611].
This includes children who are abandoned, dumped or not given proper care by their guardians.
"JKM is responsible for rescuing and providing protection to babies and children who are found, and the investigation is being conducted by the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM).
"Based on JKM data and statistical records, a total of 175 babies believed to be aged 12 months and below have been rescued and provided protection by JKM under Section 17(1)(e)(ii) of Act 611 from 2022 to 2025," the ministry said in a written answer to the Dewan Rakyat, yesterday.
This was in response to a question from Zahari Kechik (Independent-Jeli), who asked for the latest statistics on baby dumping cases from 2022 to 2025 and KPWKM's initiative in addressing the issue.
In an effort to address the issue, the ministry and its agencies have implemented various initiatives, including developing the National Reproductive and Social Health Education Policy and Action Plan (PEKERTI).
It said that the policy aims to produce individuals who are knowledgeable and have a positive attitude in the field of reproductive and social health.
"The National Reproductive and Social Health Education Action Plan is a guide to integrated action by various stakeholders to implement programs and activities.
"KPWKM also established the kafeTEEN Youth Centre, which provides counselling and health services to help teenagers overcome physical, mental and social problems.
"To date, 18 kafeTEEN Youth Centres are operating nationwide and are supported by the KafeTEEN Outreach Truck to expand service reach to wider areas," it said.
KPWKM has also expanded the Reproductive and Social Health Education Advocacy Program through the 'Jangan Malu Ambil Tahu, Jangan Malu Bagi Tahu' campaign to foster self-resilience, maintain social boundaries and increase teenagers' understanding of the negative effects of premarital sex and marriage.
"KPWKM also offers the Talian Kasih 15999 service, which operates 24 hours a day throughout the year as a channel for complaints, including cases of baby abandonment or individuals needing assistance, such as counselling.
"The toll-free line has also been expanded in scope to include telecounseling services and the use of the WhatsApp application," it said.
In addition, KPWKM has also developed the Cakna Diri Module (Teen Edition and Parent Edition) aimed at providing guidance to teenagers and parents in understanding teenage development and improving skills in dealing with risky behaviour, especially related to sexuality. – February 24, 2026
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