Monitoring Informal and Unregistered Childminding Services to Prevent Abuse

Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) whether the Ministry monitors the informal or unregistered childminding services available; and (b) what are the steps taken to increase awareness on the safety and wellbeing of the children among parents, users and providers of such services, including reporting or whistleblowing on potential breaches or abuses.

Contractual or informal arrangements between the parents and the childminders or childminding service providers are not regulated.

Childminders are subject to the relevant law under the Children and Young Persons Act or the Penal Code, no differently than any other adult responsible for a child. Anyone who suspects child abuse should report the incident to the police for investigation. There is no indication that the public lacks this general understanding.