Social Welfare Department steps in after a six-year-old girl is injured, with the suspect father detained and custody issues pending court decision.

KUCHING: The Social Welfare Department (JKM) has taken immediate action following a reported case of child abuse in Saratok involving a six-year-old girl.

Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri confirmed child protection officers have visited the victim, who is receiving hospital treatment.

The girl was allegedly thrown into a drain by her father, an incident witnessed by her mother who subsequently lodged a police report.

Saratok police chief DSP Mathew Manggie said the 43-year-old suspect was arrested the following day and is believed to have been under the influence of drugs.

“The case remains under police investigation and, at this stage, the child’s father has been detained to assist in the probe,” Nancy told reporters.

She added that both parents are in the process of divorcing and are scheduled to appear in court.

The court will determine the issue of temporary custody after assessing the family’s circumstances.

JKM will continue to monitor the case closely and is prepared to take further action if necessary.

“If no suitable guardian is identified, the child may be placed under JKM’s care,” Nancy stated.

She expressed belief that other eligible family members may be able to assume responsibility for the child’s welfare.

 The Sun Malaysia