Malaysian Bar Association proposes holistic approach to oversee nursing homes

KUALA LUMPUR:The Malaysian Bar Association has proposed a holistic approach to nursing home oversight through long-term reforms.

According to the chairman, Mohamad Ezri Abdul Wahab, such a measure is crucial to prevent a recurrence of the alleged incidents surrounding Global Ikhwan Service and Business Holding (GISB).

“The reports of systematic abuse, grooming and sexual exploitation of child victims in these centres are shocking and heartbreaking. The Malaysian Bar Association fully supports the immediate actions taken by the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and other authorities such as the Social Welfare Department (JKM) and the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

“These homes, which should have provided care and protection, have sadly been transformed into places of horrific abuse. What has happened is completely unacceptable in a society that prioritises the safety and well-being of its children,” he said in a statement today.

He said the Order also called on all regulatory agencies, not just the PDRM and JKM, to enforce stricter compliance measures and ensure that these homes are closely monitored and controlled. He also urged the community to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Mohamad Ezri stressed that the Malaysian Bar Association believes that public awareness and participation are crucial. He stressed that people need to recognise the significant risks of unregulated nursing homes, especially for vulnerable groups such as children.

“In this regard, the Malaysian Bar is prepared to provide unwavering help and support to the victims concerned. We cannot allow such horrific abuse to be ignored.

“The Malaysian Bar Association will continue to fight for justice for the victims and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to eradicate this menace in our society. Together, we must strive to create a safer environment so that the rights and dignity of every child are protected,” he added.

Recently, Police Inspector Tan Sri Razarudin Husain reported that police had successfully rescued 402 children and teenagers aged one to 17 years from 18 nursing homes in Selangor and two in Negeri Sembilan through Operation Global.