Parents must be alert at all times

MCPF Chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye

Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysia Crime Prevention Foundation (MCPF) said parents and the public should do more to keep children safe following the recent disappearance and death of 6-year old William Yau Zhen Zhong.

Its chairman, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, said protecting children from criminal acts was not the duty of the authorities alone, but the responsibility of all.

"William's death was unacceptable, irrespective of the cause. This is not the time to hurl accusations against his distraught parents. The incident should spur society to protect children in the wake of heinous crimes against them."

Expressing grief over the incident, Lee said child protection should start with the parents and in the home.

"Parents must teach their children how to respond to potentially dangerous situations. They must be alert at all times to ensure their child's safety. Monitor your children's whereabouts and do not let them roam unsupervised."

He said it was also crucial to advise children to be wary of strangers and to educate them on what to do if any untoward incidents occurred.

"Schools play an important role in this regard. Child safety education must be emphasized as innocent school children are most vulnerable to criminals."

Lee added that the police and relevant authorities should step up measures to ensure better protection for children, calling for a nationwide movement that involved all levels of society.