KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 1 — Law and Institutional Reform Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said she was delighted to receive recommendations from children’s rights advocates and civil society organisations for the draft Children’s Commission Bill regarding an Independent Children’s Commission.
Azalina said the recommendations illustrate how civil society is backing the government’s legislative efforts in line with the “whole-of-society” approach.
“Safeguarding children’s protection and well-being is a shared duty among Malaysians, extending beyond the government. As we mark 66 years of independence, we must establish our national integrity by championing the rights of every child.
“The Madani government is committed to upholding children’s rights and recognises the significance of transparency and establishing an independent oversight body like the Office of the Children’s Commissioner (OCC),” she said on X today.
She said such efforts protect the nation’s future by ensuring the safety of children.
Azalina said she hopes the Children’s Commission of Malaysia Bill, which was drafted after various engagements with key stakeholders, knowledge exchange sessions and in-depth research, can be tabled at the October parliament sitting.
“I am looking forward to a positive outcome and will continue to engage all stakeholders in ensuring the establishment of an independent OCC that will serve to uphold the rights of all children in Malaysia,” she said.
Among the recommendations highlighted by 12 children’s rights advocates and civil society organisations were that the children’s commission must be independent, cover all critical issues, and improve basic health service delivery and protection.
— Bernama
