KUALA LUMPUR: The government is considering a proposal to establish a National Children’s Commission to strengthen the protection of children’s rights in Malaysia.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the proposal includes studying the commission’s mandate, structure, legal framework, and financial implications to ensure it does not overlap with existing institutions.
She said the proposal, raised by Ampang MP Rodziah Ismail, could enhance governance and oversight of children’s rights, in line with growing concerns over the safety and welfare of the younger generation.
“At present, children’s rights matters are handled by the Children’s Commissioner under the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM), which advises the government, monitors the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), and investigates complaints of rights violations.
“Therefore, the government believes that strengthening the role and autonomy of the Children’s Commissioner under SUHAKAM should be the immediate focus, while further studies are carried out to identify the best institutional model based on international best practices and local needs,” she said when winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2026 at the policy stage in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Malaysia’s child population under 18 was estimated at 9.13 million, or 27.4% of the total population in 2023.
“This shows that the proposal to establish a National Children’s Commission is timely and aligns with the government’s vision to eventually appoint a Children’s Commissioner in every state,” she added.
On the issue of bullying, Azalina said the government is drafting the Anti-Bullying Bill 2025, based on human rights principles, scientific evidence, and a child-friendly approach.
“The Special Task Force submitted its recommendations to the Cabinet on Oct 24, and the bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament this December.
“This marks an important shift from a punitive approach to one that focuses on prevention, protection, and education for the well-being of children,” she said.
The Special Task Force, chaired by Azalina, includes senior representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, and other enforcement agencies to assess feasibility and develop policy recommendations for Cabinet consideration.
Azalina reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritising the welfare, safety, and rights of children in line with the MADANI legal reform agenda. – Bernama
