IT would not have prevented the likes of Richard Huckle from preying on Malaysian children because he was not yet a convicted paedophile then. But, now, he would be on the registry of convicted paedophiles expected to be ready by the end of the year and available to operators of establishments where children are present such as schools, orphanages, daycare centres, creches and malls. Intended to be a comprehensive list, it will also include the names of foreign convicted paedophiles. However, given the extent of the abuse perpetrated by Huckle, one would have thought that the matter would be treated with such urgency that the list would have been ready yesterday. Instead, it is delayed by the amended Child Act, which is waiting to be gazetted. Granted, the procedure is bound by time-honoured protocol, but surely in this instance, an exception must be made.
Since police have a list of local convicts and suspects, it should be possible to access it immediately. But, caution is needed to ensure that there are no negative consequences because it would be an invasion of privacy and many of them would have done time. However, even if those on the list decide to sue for invasion of privacy, it would be a welcome development as that would make their identities public. So, it is likely that only a few will sue the authorities. Some countries have submitted lists of paedophiles to Interpol. Some countries may be reluctant to do so because of wariness over snooping, but bilateral arrangements can be negotiated. After all, some of these countries’ lists are available online. While our proposed list will help to keep paedophiles away from children in the formal sector, these predators — regardless of whether they have been convicted, or are suspects or unknown to police — are stalking our streets and remain a danger to children. Children in playgrounds are most at risk. Children walking home from school, unescorted by adults, are another high-risk group. Malls where parents are wont to let their kids loose are also risky areas. What is being arranged by the authorities to ensure that the public space is safe for children?
Threatening to punish negligent parents is, of course, one way of guaranteeing that they remain vigilant. However, how do parents make sure that those who are entrusted with their children’s safety are also vigilant? Firstly, the government should consider providing free school transport from the front gates of their homes to their schools’ entrances. Secondly, malls and other public places frequented by children must have their security upgraded. Thirdly, those found employing convicted paedophiles must be held liable. Fourthly, there should be public education campaigns to change the mindsets of people who tolerate paedophilia and to put an end to child marriages. Fifthly, set up pondok polis in high-risk areas, such as playgrounds. And, finally, security and vigilance must be beefed up at entry points and the biometric system be set up and operational. A war on paedophilia must be declared and no compromises tolerated.