Listen to the children, says expert on setting up of commission

 

The children’s commission should start by tackling issues faced by children in poverty and those being abused, says consultant paediatrician Dr Amar-Singh HSS.

PETALING JAYA: While lauding an independent children’s commission as a step in the right direction, advocates want it to be inclusive and holistic.

Consultant paediatrician and activist Dr Amar-Singh HSS said the commission should be broad based to include the needs of children who are marginalised as well as those in poverty and with disabilities who need to be heard.

“There must be mechanisms to listen to the children themselves and not just have plans for them,” he told FMT, deeming it important for civil society and activists who have been working to improve the situation and rights of children to be roped in.

Amar also hoped the commission would have the scope and authority to implement changes instead of just being an advisory body.

He said it is critical to start by tackling issues faced by children in poverty and children being abused.

The commission will also need sufficient funds and personnel to deal with a wide range of issues, he said.

Sharmila Sekaran, chairman of the Voice of the Children organisation, called the commission a step towards elevating the rights, care and protection of children.

Describing the decision as “fabulous”, Sharmila said the commission and the previously announced children’s department would generate greater awareness, consideration and standing to issues faced by children if it is properly set up and staffed.

“How we deal with children today determines their outcome into adulthood. This, in turn, will determine the outcome of our society and nation,” she said.

She said the commission also needs to ensure that the laws, regulations, policies, administrative processes and programmes are in line with the Federal Constitution, specific local legislation, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

“Issues affecting children need to be looked at holistically and not from one specific viewpoint because they are cross-cutting and ultimately affect the wellbeing of a child,” she said.

Suhakam said adequate allocations and human resources are vital to ensure the commission is able to carry out its duties which, it said, should include the survival, protection and development of children.

“To ensure the protection of children’s best interests, the commission must have a broad jurisdiction and clear mandate,” its chairman, Rahmat Mohamad, said.  - FMT