Child Safeguarding Framework to Ensure Safety and Security Measures in Childcare Sector

Assoc Prof Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Social and Family Development as part of the proposed review of safety and security measures in the early childhood sector, whether the Ministry is considering working with the sector to develop a Child Safeguarding Framework.

Assoc Prof Razwana raised the idea of a new child safeguarding framework last September and I had explained that there is already a multi-layered system of safeguards. There are policies and requirements in the Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDC) Act and Regulations, as well as a Code of Practice that it issues to the preschool sector. The issue is not that there is insufficient policies or frameworks, but to ensure that this is implemented down to every early childhood educator.

Hence, ECDA is focusing on strengthening the Regulations and Code of Practice. We are currently reviewing penalty provisions for errant operators with a view to enhancing them. We are also strengthening the training curriculum so that educators are better equipped to ensure child safety.