Child Welfare and Social Work: The Legal, Political and Social Contexts of Malaysia
Abstract
This paper is based on literature review on the legal, political and social context of Malaysia regarding child welfare and social work. Children are an asset and younger generations will become the leaders of the country in future. In the Malaysian context, a variety of factors impact on how children are defined. These include the Islamic perspective, local cultural practices, approaches based on biological growth and relevant legislation. Such varying definitions can cause confusion in the application of law and could result in injustice. When talking regarding the social problems concerning children in Malaysia, there include abuse, neglect, abandonment of babies, street children, children beyond parental control, children involved with crime, underage marriage, prostitution and child trafficking. However, the shortage of professional social workers who can effectively manage abuse and child neglect cases is a serious problem.
Downloads
References
Child Protection Act. (2001). Petaling Jaya: International Laws Book Services
Detik Daily (17 March 2010). Dewan Ulama Pas Bidas Kahwin Kanak-Kanak [online] available at: http://www.detikdaily.net/v5/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=6623 [Accessed 15th May 2010]
Islamic Family Law Enactment (2002) [online] Available at:
Jal Zabdi, M. Y. (2008) Child Protection Laws in Malaysia: The Changing Trend. [online] Available at:
Juvenile Courts Act 1947 (Act 90) International Law Book Services: Kuala Lumpur
Kamus Dewan (2005). Kuala Lumpur: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka
Malaysia Welfare Department (2008). [online] Available at:
Nazrisyam Abu Bakar (2003) Penderaan kanak-Kanak: Satu Kajian di Jabatan Masyarakat Malaysia. Unversiti Malaya: Jabatan Sosio-Budaya Akademi Kajian Melayu