A Seremban childcare centre operating without approval is shut down following the death of a one-year-old girl in its care
SEREMBAN: A childcare centre operating from a house in Bandar Sri Sendayan has been ordered to close following the death of a one-year-old girl in its care.
The Negeri Sembilan Social Welfare Department (JKM) director Muhammad Yusry Che Dah said investigations found the centre was operating without approval under the Child Care Centre Act 1984.
“Even if a daycare centre operates from a residential house, it must be registered with JKM if it cares for four or more children,” he said.
He stated that JKM conducts a detailed inspection before granting any approval for such centres.
Muhammad Yusry said the house is believed to have been operating for almost two years with six to seven children under the care of the nanny involved.
Seremban district police chief ACP Azahar Abdul Rahim had earlier said the one-year-old girl died after being taken unconscious to a private clinic last Monday.
Initial police investigations found the victim was under the care of a 32-year-old nanny who was reportedly in poor health before the incident.
Azahar said a post-mortem examination revealed injuries to the child’s abdomen.
The case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001.
Muhammad Yusry advised parents to ensure they send their children only to registered childcare centres.
He said this ensures children are cared for in accordance with established regulations and reduces the risk of untoward incidents.
The director also stressed that JKM will not compromise with any operator who violates the law.
He reiterated that the safety and welfare of children remain the department’s top priority. – Bernama
