The children’s commissioners express profound sadness and shock over the tragic incident involving five members of a family in Kuantan on 17 February.
The tragedy is made even more heartbreaking by the loss of two young children, aged two and four years. The two-year-old child was due to celebrate her birthday the following day, on 18 February.
Initial reports indicate the father was known among neighbours as a friendly and well-mannered individual.
While there has been no indication of a prior mental health diagnosis, the police have not ruled out financial stress as a possible contributing factor, particularly in the light of reports of a quarrel between the parents on the morning of the incident.
This deeply distressing tragedy serves as a painful reminder that more must be done to prevent such incidents from recurring, especially where innocent children are concerned.
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This period coincided with significant festive seasons, including Chinese New Year and the month of Ramadan, which are meant to be times of joy, reflection and togetherness for families and children. Incidents such as this profoundly affect society’s collective conscience.
The children’s commissioners call upon the Ministry of Health and the National Population and Family Development Board to strengthen and expand community-based outreach programmes, particularly those offering early mental health screening, psychosocial support and counselling services.
Special attention should be given to parents and caregivers, including fathers or sole breadwinners, who may be experiencing overwhelming financial and emotional pressures.
At the same time, the children’s commissioners urge families, extended family members, neighbours and communities to remain attentive, compassionate and responsive to those who may be facing distress or hardship. A supportive and caring environment can play a critical role in preventing crises and safeguarding the wellbeing of children.
The protection of children must remain a shared responsibility, one that requires vigilance, empathy and timely support. – Suhakam
Dr Farah Nini Dusuki is the chief children’s commissioner at the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam).
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
