JOHOR BARU: "My son has endured months of pain, stress, and suffering, left starving and confined to a toilet. The perpetrator must be punished," said M. Ana.
The 34-year-old mother of the abused child, disclosed that she had the opportunity to reunite with her son last Saturday after receiving information from the Social Welfare Department's child protection services.
Ana, in expressing deep distress over her son's condition, said she could barely recognise him because his physical condition was not the same as before.
She recounted that when her child lived with her two years ago, he weighed over 60kg and was a cheerful and friendly child.
"I have lodged reports seven times, including in Banting, Selangor, as my husband has denied me access to him for over a year. I wouldn't dismiss the possibility that he has been a victim of abuse during this period," she told Harian Metro.
Ana revealed that, according to her son's account, he resorted to drinking toilet water when hungry, and sometimes had to scavenge for leftover food scraps.
She further stated that her son conveyed enduring pain from deliberate beatings and burnings inflicted by her husband's girlfriend, with no refuge to seek.
"I did not witness these acts, but I cannot forgive the perpetrators and hope they are brought to justice.
"I can't imagine what might have transpired had the police not intervened; we might have lost him," said Ana, who also operates a nasi lemak food stall in Kuala Selangor.
Ana recounted her efforts to persuade her son to receive treatment at Sultanah Aminah Hospital (HSA), and she shared that his condition has been gradually improving.
"I am thankful for his rescue, thanks to the police, the local community, and volunteers. I also appreciate the support provided by the Johor Women's League (JEWEL) and Skuad Waja to my child from the time of his rescue until now.
"I eagerly anticipate bringing him home following the investigative process, enrolling him in school, and ensuring his continued well-being," she added.
Currently, Ana is also caring for her 54-year-old mother who has suffered a stroke.
Yesterday, Harian Metro reported the discovery of an eight-year-old boy who had been subjected to abuse, found in a powerless state, naked, and confined in his family's bathroom in Pulai, last Friday.
A neighbour, visiting the family's residence to store groceries in the refrigerator the previous Thursday, made the shocking discovery.