Children's Commission Bill to be tabled in Parliament next week: Azalina

The Malaysian Children’s Commission Bill aimed to create an independent commission responsible for advocating and enhancing the protection and rights of children is expected to be tabled in Dewan Rakyat next week.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Azalina Othman Said said she was optimistic that the first reading of the bill could be done before the current session of Parliament ends on Nov 30.

She said the amendment to the Malaysian Human Rights Commission Act 1999 would also be made concurrently with the tabling of the Malaysian Children’s Commission Bill.

“Once we are done with the Supply Bill 2024, we will have three more days for the tabling of other bills, so we will try to table this bill during this session, at least for the first reading.

“However, for now, we shall focus on getting the Supply Bill passed,” she told reporters after checking out the World Children's Day Exhibition in conjunction with the World Children's Day 2023 celebration today.

At the same time, Azalina also expressed hope that all parties will unite on matters related to the protection and rights of children brought to both the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara.

“I have an opinion that the issues on the vulnerable group, especially children, must be made into reality with the participation of members of Parliament from both sides… you have to stand united for the children,” she said.

- Bernama