WVM spearheads grassroots efforts against child abuse

In the shadows of physical and sexual abuse, the broader specter of verbal and emotional abuse silently haunts countless children, leaving lasting scars on their development and well-being. While Malaysia has taken strides in addressing child abuse through legislative measures, the issue persists due to underreporting fueled by the misguided desire to “keep it within the family” or a lack of understanding of what constitutes abuse.

Verbal abuse, often dismissed, can be as damaging as physical harm, affecting a child’s self-worth profoundly. Economic-driven situations, where parents struggle to provide basic needs, also fall under the category of neglect, constituting a form of child abuse.

In 2022, the Department of Social Welfare reported over 6,700 cases, with about 50% categorized as neglect. These statistics underscore the challenges faced by government bodies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working tirelessly to raise awareness about children’s rights and the importance of child protection.

Building Trust and Awareness

World Vision Malaysia (WVM), a child-focused NGO, has been at the forefront of grassroots initiatives to address child abuse sensitively. Lydia Lee, Malaysian Programmes and Grants Manager at WVM, emphasizes the need for collective action, stating, “Grass-root buy-in is crucial. Broaching the subject at this level is sensitive, requiring us to walk alongside communities, be their friends, and build trust for honest dialogue to move forward.”

WVM adopts various approaches to foster trust and awareness, with positive parenting training being a cornerstone. Under its Community Development Programmes (CDP) in Sabah, WVM not only focuses on education and nutrition but also creates safe spaces for children and adults to voice concerns.

Positive parenting is promoted, and economic well-being options are explored for parents, alleviating the burden of livelihood and fostering a conducive home environment. All community programs include education on children’s rights, self-protection, and reporting mechanisms for child protection incidents.

Tackling Child Labor

Child labor, a complex issue related to child abuse, remains prevalent. WVM acknowledges the challenge but stresses the need for a holistic approach, addressing economic factors and social inequalities contributing to the problem.

Lydia Lee acknowledges the hurdles faced by NGOs, including limited resources, coordination issues, community resistance, and the need for cultural sensitivity. “Understanding the communities’ perspectives, addressing harmful practices, and working with influential community members are key strategies to champion the cause effectively at the grassroots level,” Lee commented.

In addition to various CDP initiatives, WVM organizes the annual #RunForChildren event, aiming to raise awareness on child abuse and funds for child protection initiatives. The collaborative effort across private and public sectors is crucial to safeguard Malaysia’s future generations, creating a society where every child can thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.