Awareness Talk on Safeguarding Minors

A talk on Safeguarding of Minors was held on Sunday, 12th June 2022 at the Nativity Centre, NBVM by Mr. Christopher Kushi, a civil litigator who is part of the Professional Standards Office (PSO). The PSO consists of a group of people from various professions including lawyers, teachers and psychologists which is directly under the supervision of Bishop Sebastian. The insightful talk was joined by approximately 50 members of the church mainly catechism formators which ensued with a question-and-answer session towards the end. Geared toward increasing awareness of the safeguarding of children, this team has been holding talks in different churches in Penang.

The Catholic Church in tackling the issue of child abuse, has developed several initiatives such as setting up strategies and policies during the Global Summit held in 2019 in Rome which was attended by Bishop Sebastian. On the question of what needs to be done by the universal church, it was decided that every diocese in the world must form a Professional Standards Office. Besides, the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors was also instituted by Pope Francis which proposes policies that will be adapted to each country.

The severity of child abuse is apparent as Pope Francis described child abuse as a kind of psychological murder. On a similar note, Bishop Sebastian quoted Matthew 18:6 “But anyone who is the downfall of one of these little ones who have faith in me would be better drowned in the depths of the sea with a great millstone round his neck.”

During the talk, the audience was told that in Malaysia, it is mandated by the law or an obligation to report child abuse under the Child Act 2001. Other laws involving child abuse include the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Child (UNCRC), Child Act (Amendment) 2016 and Sexual Offences against Children Act 2017.

Moreover, the speaker brought to attention a crucial person known as the “Protector” or “Pelindung” who handles cases involving child abuse and has powers provided under the Child Act 2001. However, cases relating to sexual abuse must be reported to the police.

The speaker also gave a detailed explanation of physical and emotional injury, sexual abuse, neglect relating to minors and the dangers of child grooming. On top of that, those who have any queries or wish to make a report can contact the Talian Kasih Hotline at 15999 or via WhatsApp at 019-2615999.

He further stated that currently there is an urge to enact the Sexual Harassment Act and Anti-Bullying Act to address this issue. He emphasized that it is of utmost importance to protect the best interest of the child. Therefore, as the “eyes and ears of the church”, members of the church have a duty to inform and are welcome to directly contact him or the Bishop’s office. (Mariessa James)