The recent headline news of 392 children rescued from despicable abuse purportedly in welfare homes allegedly operated by a certain conglomerate highlight the urgent need for long-term care services for child abuse victims. As UNICEF has pointed out, the physical and psychological trauma these children endure demands more than immediate intervention; it requires sustained, professional support.

The living nightmares these children were confronted with - ranging from sodomy, being taught to sodomise, sexual assault, being burnt, physical ill-treatment, child labour and exploitation, deprivation of formal education will leave deep-seated emotional and psychological wounds that cannot be cured overnight.

Long-term care services are crucial to help these minors process their trauma, build resilience, and develop the skills needed for a hopeful future, and most pertinently, dislodge any normalisation of abuse that disables them from distinguishing inappropriate conduct.

Qualified social workers and mental health professionals are essential in this recovery process. Their expertise provides tailored interventions to meet the complex needs of abused children, ensuring their safety and supporting their journey towards healing, building resilience and reintegration into society.

Wanita MCA reiterates the need for improved regulation and oversight of institutional care, especially where commercial entities pose as charitable organisations. The Social Welfare Department and the police must work together to create an environment that prioritises child safety and addresses their long-term needs with the seriousness they deserve.

The disturbing revelations reflect a necessity for comprehensive reforms and effective child protection systems. UNICEF’s advocacy for long-term care services is vital in addressing both the immediate and ongoing needs of child abuse survivors. This commitment is essential to ensure that every child has the opportunity to recover from their trauma, regain lost confidence, overcome fear of adults or even other children, and lead a fulfilling, life.

In supporting UNICEF's call for long-term care, we reaffirm our dedication to safeguarding vulnerable children and addressing the root causes of institutional abuse. By investing in the long-term well-being of these children, we contribute to a future where all children can thrive in safety and dignity.

Tee Hooi Ling
Wanita MCA National Deputy Chairperson

13 Sept 2024

-MCA Comm-