No sign of abuse on abandoned toddler

The three-year-old toddler, Muhammad Adam, who was found alone at a house in Gemencheh, Tampin yesterday is now in good condition and active.

The medical reports issued by the Tampin Hospital also stated that there were no signs of physical abuse on the boy, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rohani Karim.

She said her ministry viewed the incident seriously and the Social Welfare Department (JKM) would continue to monitor the case closely.

"The ministry, through JKM, has conducted an early intervention session with the counsellor-in-charge of the case upon the child's admission to the Tampin Hospital.

"JKM will also complete its investigation to put him under the care of the proper person namely his grandfather who has expressed the desire to take care of the child before obtaining a temporary injunction for him from the court," she said in a statement here today.

Rohani said according to Section 31 and Section 33 of the Child Act 2001, it was an offence for parents or a guardian to leave a child without reasonable supervision.

"According to Section 31, parents may be fined not more than RM20,000 or jailed for a term not exceeding 10 years and Section 33 carries a fine of not more than RM5,000 or two years' jail or both upon conviction," she said. -- BERNAMA