Rina a disappointment in Bella case

 

Is Rina Harun, the women, community and family development minister, aware of her responsibilities?

Does she know that she is in charge of one of the most powerful portfolios in the government?

Nothing of substance appears to have come out from her ministry. If she finds her duties overwhelming, she should resign, and her responsibilities handed over to someone who is prepared to take over?

On Tuesday, Rina had a meeting with the Tunku Mahkota Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, who felt compelled to take an interest in Bella, the 13-year-old with Down’s Syndrome who had allegedly been abused over several months at a care home.

Bella’s ordeal had apparently not been resolved with speed by Rina, who denied on Thursday that her ministry had not taken measures to deal with the problem.

Many Malaysians may not be aware that those with Down’s Syndrome have a greater chance of health complications such as heart disorders, hearing problems, thyroid issues and recurrent infections. Although they have some learning disabilities, they can still lead healthy lives and, more importantly, be semi- or fully independent as adults. Their treatment normally focuses on supporting their development.

After the meeting, the prince proposed a few changes, which he hoped would prevent the recurrence of abuse cases, such as Bella’s.

But did Rina tell TMJ – as the prince is popularly known – that we have adequate laws to protect children, including the vulnerable, and women in society?

Did she also tell him that these laws should prevent wrongdoing, but many are not being strictly enforced, and some are subject to corruption?

The checks and balances which should ensure a smooth administration are lacking. This is a failure of leadership. No more, no less.

Rina has been accused of dragging her feet in the case concerning Bella. It is not that it was highlighted only last week or a month ago; news had leaked out in July 2021.

If Rina – or for that matter, any other minister – needs someone to tell her how to do her job, then her position becomes untenable and she should step down.

We seem to lurch from one abuse case to another. All hell breaks loose when a victim of abuse is hospitalised, or dies from some injuries. The abuser or abusers are tried, then sentenced.

If inquiries had been heard, and solutions found, then new cases should not crop up. Or have the findings and suggestions been swept under the carpet, or left to gather dust in some office?

Society is at fault, too, because many neighbours, relatives, acquaintances, friends and teachers may suspect that an abuse has taken place, but for reasons of their own, choose not to report it. Many see it as not their problem.

The question now is whether Bella’s predicament is just the tip of the iceberg. How many other Bellas are still suffering in silence, and waiting to be rescued? - FMT

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.