LETTERS: Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) should be more vocal in addressing the allegation of sexual misconduct involving a female teacher towards a male student.
Although the matter is under investigation by the authorities, NGOs should issue a strong statement against any acts of sexual misconduct.
When sexual misconduct happens to a female victim by a male accused, many strong statements of condemnation are made by NGOs.
There shouldn't be any differences of approach in dealing with such an issue. NGOs play a vital role in helping society and country.
There are laws thatcan be used to address sexual misconduct on underage victims, the most important being the Sexual Offenses Against Children Act 2017 [Act 792].
Children's safety is not the sole responsibility of their parents or guardians only. Being young, immature and naive, they can become easy prey. Parents and guardians should play an active role in protecting them.
Sadly, we have seen a lot of news about parents and guardians who neglect and are careless in performing their basic duty and responsibility to protect children under their care.
In short, NGOs, together with parents and guardians, need to be vigilant and responsible when it comes to the protection of children.
DR MUZAFFAR SYAH MALLOW
Associate Professor, Faculty of Syariah & Law, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times