Government Steps Up to Protect Children: Stronger Laws, Mobile Courts, and Victim Support
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 11 — Protecting children from sexual crimes is no longer just a legal priority in Malaysia — it’s becoming a nationwide mission backed by stronger laws, mobile courts, and committed people working behind the scenes.
The government is tightening its grip on offenders with tougher laws, wider access to justice, and more victim-focused measures. Deputy Director-General (Legal Reform Sector) of the Legal Affairs Division under the Prime Minister’s Department, Thiyagu Ganesan, shared that this push includes amendments to the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 [Act 792], more Special Criminal Courts, and ongoing training for legal officers.
A Major Legal Shift
In 2023, Act 792 was strengthened to better reflect the reality of modern-day abuse. Outdated terms like “child pornography” were replaced with “child sexual abuse material” to emphasise the harm inflicted on victims. New offences were introduced — including live-streaming of sexual crimes and sextortion — and courts can now order mandatory compensation for victims.
The recently passed Online Safety Act 2025 (Act 866) takes the fight into the digital world, placing responsibility on platforms to remove harmful content and adopt a “safety-by-design” approach to protect children online.
Justice That Comes to the Child
To make justice less intimidating, Malaysia has expanded the Special Courts for Sexual Crimes Against Children to 81 nationwide. Even more groundbreaking is the introduction of child-friendly mobile courts — complete with a child witness room — that travel to the child’s location so they don’t have to endure the stress of a courtroom.
Training for the Frontline Defenders
Recognising the sensitivity of these cases, prosecutors, judges, and lawyers are undergoing specialised training. This aligns with new reforms on how child witnesses are questioned, aiming to ensure fairness without causing further trauma.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
The government is also boosting awareness of Section 19 of Act 792, which makes it mandatory for everyone to report suspected child sexual crimes.
Thiyagu further highlighted recent amendments to the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) Act 1999. This has led to the appointment of a full-time Chief Children Commissioner, two Children Commissioners, and an additional Commissioner dedicated to child protection. Their role is not just to advise but to hold the government accountable for continuous improvement.
“Our aim is to create an environment where children are safe — both offline and online — and where their voices are heard without fear,” Thiyagu said.
The message is clear: protecting children is everyone’s responsibility, and Malaysia is taking bold, concrete steps to make sure no child is left unprotected.