Special handbook on child sexual crime cases

PUTRAJAYA: A special handbook on (handling) sexual crime against children was launched today.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said proposed to present it to the Cabinet.
The idea for the handbook was mooted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak when he opened the Special Court for Sexual Crimes Against Children on June 22 this year.
"The special guidelines prioritise the best interests and protection of the children who are often traumatised when they become victims of sexual abuse," she said while launching the handbook today.
She said the working committee that prepared the handbook would monitor the implementation of the guidelines.
Improvements to the guidelines would be made from time to time taking into account the views of interested parties, she said, adding, it was to ensure that efforts to curb sexual crimes against children would not cease.
"These special guidelines can help child victims understand that the procedure and handling of any case involving sexual crimes against children are different from those of a normal court.
"Total protection is given to them (the victims) especially from the accused or the perpetrator," she added.
The 103-page handbook has 10 chapters under four titles, namely, reports and investigations received; trial; handling of victims or child witnesses; and protection and support services for the victims or child witnesses.
Parties who will likely use the handbook as a reference include the Social Welfare Department and non-governmental organisations. — Bernama