Nancy fielding questions from reporters after officiating the Sarawak-level National Mothers’ Day celebration. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (May 25): The Child Protection Team (Pelindung) has detected elements of neglect and carelessness in the care of a teenage girl found to be 35 weeks pregnant in Saratok, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
She said the Social Welfare Department (JKM) has deployed Pelindung officers to visit the teenager, who is expected to give birth in June, and is currently providing psychosocial support while police investigations are ongoing.
“The police will take action using existing laws because this child is still under 18-years-old, and is currently under the care of her family.
“However, Pelindung found indications of neglect and carelessness in looking after this teenager.
“There is a possibility that the child and the baby will be placed under the care of a suitable and qualified person,” she told reporters after officiating the Sarawak-level National Mothers’ Day celebration at Pustaka Negeri here on Monday.
Nancy, however, noted that there are circumstances in which families may be unable to properly care for a child’s wellbeing.
“They may be incapable financially, or in terms of educating and raising the child. All of this is determined through a court order.
“That is why Pelindung must act quickly because a report from them is needed for us to bring the matter to court in order to identify a suitable and qualified person to care for the child,” she stressed.
According to Saratok district police chief DSP Mathew Manggie, a 22-year-old suspect has been detained to assist in investigations after a report was lodged by a medical officer following an examination of the victim at the Kabong Health Clinic.
When asked about cases involving mental health issues, Nancy said the data remains subjective.
“Since 2025, there have been 2,467 recorded cases reported in relation to domestic violence,” she said.
She further explained that several new initiatives have been introduced in 2026 under her ministry, including the Women’s Support Information Advocacy and Intervention Referral Programme (PRISMAnita) to assist victims of domestic abuse.
“They can reach out through the programme to seek advice and assistance,” she said, adding that most reported cases involving mental health elements are linked to domestic violence.