CCTV, Regular Monitoring Key To Prevent Bullying In Care Centres

MELAKA, May 19 (Bernama) -- The requirement to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems as a key condition for care centres and shelters continues to be seen as one of the most effective safeguards against bullying, while also ensuring more effective monitoring of residents. 

Women, Family and Community Development deputy minister Lim Hui Ying said the use of CCTV is not only intended to monitor conditions at the premise, but also serves as a preventive measure, as both residents and staff are aware that their movements are under surveillance. 

She said in addition to CCTV installation, staff at care centres and shelters must also constantly monitor and conduct regular patrols to reduce the risk of bullying incidents. 

“Most importantly, if there are victims of bullying, they must come forward to lodge complaints with staff or members of the shelter so that immediate action can be taken.

“If we receive reports, we will ensure that monitoring is conducted properly and comprehensively,” she told reporters after visiting Rumah Kasih Tun Abdul Aziz in Durian Daun here, in conjunction with her two-day working visit to Melaka.

Commenting on the issue of unregistered childcare centres (TASKA), she said it is compulsory for all such centres to be registered to ensure compliance with established guidelines and conditions. 

She said the ministry continuously carries out advocacy and conducts outreach to engage operators of unregistered TASKA to encourage them to register and obtain official approval. 

“We will approach these operators and urge them to register and comply with the ministry’s requirements and guidelines.

“However, if they still refuse to do so, we have the authority to carry out monitoring and shut down unregistered TASKA after due verification,” she said. 

She explained that regularisation efforts are carried out at least twice a year to ensure there are no violations of standards and regulations.

-- BERNAMA