PUTRAJAYA, Feb 22 — A kindergarten embroiled in allegations of abuse involving a six-year-old autistic child in Shah Alam was found to be operating illegally.
In a statement today, the Social Welfare Department (JKM) said an initial inspection revealed the building was registered as a kindergarten, not authorised to operate as a childcare centre (taska) or accept children aged under four.
“JKM has issued a notice prohibiting the kindergarten from operating due to violations under the Child Care Centre Act (1984).
“JKM has also instructed the kindergarten operator to attend a meeting at the Selangor JKM office for further information regarding this case,” the statement read.
JKM said the case has been referred to the District Education Office for further action.
The department released the statement after an investigation into a complaint made by the parents of an autistic child, who alleged their child was abused at the premises.
Yesterday, Shah Alam police chief Mohd Iqbal Ibrahim confirmed a report had been received and an investigation was underway.
He said the report was lodged by the victim’s mother at 11.18am on January 16, stating her husband had discovered red marks on the child’s back and below the right eye.
The investigation is being conducted under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001.
— Bernama
