Welfare Department Monitoring Operations
The Welfare Department in Sarawak is keeping a close watch on a childcare center in Kuching that has ties to the controversial Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holding (GISBH). This follows recent allegations of abuse and mismanagement at GISBH centers in other parts of Malaysia.
Minister Fatimah Abdullah confirmed that the childcare center in Kuching obtained an operating license in 2014 but failed to renew it after it expired in 2019. Despite continuing operations, the center has not complied with the renewal requirements.
One of the conditions for license renewal is that the operator must have a permanent address. However, the Kuching center has been relocated multiple times over the years, making it difficult to track and regulate.
Recent Inspection and Health Checks
The Welfare Department conducted an inspection of the center on July 10, 2024, and found 18 children residing there. Minister Fatimah Abdullah also revealed that she had visited the center in the past.
In light of the allegations against GISBH, the Health Department has been instructed to inspect the Kuching childcare center to ensure that it meets health and safety standards. The operator has also been advised to renew the license, and the ministry has warned that it will take action if the center fails to comply with regulations.
Police Investigation and Account Freezing
The recent raids on GISBH centers in Selangor and Negeri Sembilan by the police have intensified scrutiny of the organization. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain announced that authorities have frozen 96 bank accounts linked to GISBH, totaling RM581,552.31.
The police rescued 402 children from the raided centers, and investigations are ongoing into allegations of abuse, including sodomy, physical abuse, and emotional abuse.
Concerns and Public Safety
The allegations against GISBH have raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of children placed in its care. The monitoring of the childcare center in Kuching is a crucial step in ensuring that children in Sarawak are protected from harm.
As the investigation into GISBH continues, it is important for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The safety and welfare of children must be a top priority for all.