Rape victims, families decide on underage marriages: Rohani

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will accept the decision of rape victims and their families when it comes to underage marriages.
In stating this, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim stressed that as the ministry responsible for the wellbeing and welfare of children, it discouraged underage marriages.
"Nevertheless, the ministry will agree (akur) with the decision of the (rape) victim and family in proceeding with the marriage according to existing laws," she said in a statement today.
Rohani was referring to news report on a 12-year-old girl, who married the man convicted of raping her in Sabah.
She said the girl is doing fine with her life and her husband Riduan Masmud, 44, is serving his 12-year jail term after being convicted of raping her in 2015.
"The ministry wants to stress that marrying the rape victim will not spare the offender from facing the law for the offence committed.
"The punishment given to the offender in this case clearly showed the legal system in the country is strong in protecting victims, especially in cases involving children," Rohani said.
She said underage marriages are discouraged although there are provisions allowing it because the children should be given the opportunity to explore their potential.
"Underage marriages can bring physical and mental challenges and pressure, which comprises the health, education and financial aspects of the children's lives," Rohani said.