Why are Malaysian children denied basic rights like education and shelter?

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Malaysian Children Face Deprivation of Basic Rights Due to Insufficient Protections and Societal Perceptions

Malaysian children are being denied fundamental rights, including access to education and adequate shelter, due to a lack of comprehensive legal protections and prevailing societal attitudes that often view them as extensions of adult decisions rather than individuals with inherent rights. This situation results in minors being subjected to harsh conditions, including detention and exploitation, and being deprived of essential documentation and opportunities for development.
Minors Subjected to Harsh Detention and Exploitation

Stories have emerged of minors being held in jail and subjected to restraint with chains, often while wearing minimal clothing. Furthermore, migrant children are reportedly detained as a tactic to compel their parents to reveal themselves and come out of hiding, highlighting a severe disregard for the well-being and protection of vulnerable young individuals within the immigration system.
Obstacles to Essential Documentation and Identity

The process of obtaining birth certificates is a significant hurdle for many children, with denials frequently occurring if a parent is absent, or due to reasons related to the parents' religion or race. This lack of official identification can create cascading disadvantages, impacting a child's ability to access services and formal education.
Limited Agency in Family Matters and Societal Views

Children, particularly in cases of divorce, have limited say in crucial life decisions, such as choosing which parent to live with or the religion they will follow, especially if one parent converts. This reflects a broader cultural perception where children are sometimes treated as property, with their futures determined by adult preferences rather than their own needs or desires.
Deprivation of Education and Vulnerability to Harm

Instead of attending school, minors are sometimes found working on the streets, indicating a failure to ensure their right to education and a safe environment. Additionally, there are disturbing instances of children being married off to their perpetrators and adopted children being separated from their guardians due to procedural irregularities, underscoring significant gaps in child protection frameworks.

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Why are Malaysian children denied basic rights like education and shelter?

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