Child Marriage in Malaysia: A Violation of Children’s Rights
Child marriage is a distressing and pervasive problem that continues to plague the lives of many young girls in Malaysia. It is an issue that demands urgent attention and action from both the government and society at large.
In Malaysia, child marriage refers to the union of a child under the age of 18, either male or female, with another person, often an adult. This age-old practice is fueled by a variety of factors, including cultural, religious, and socio-economic reasons. Often, families choose to marry off their daughters at a young age due to financial difficulties or to uphold social traditions and norms.
The consequences of child marriage are far-reaching and severely impact the lives of the victims. Young girls who are married off usually have their education abruptly halted, denying them the opportunity to reach their full potential and lead empowered lives. As a result, they are more likely to experience poverty and face limited job prospects in the future.
Child marriage also exposes these girls to serious health risks. Early pregnancy and childbirth can have catastrophic consequences for both the young mother and her child. The lack of physical and emotional maturity of child brides often leads to complications during childbirth, increasing the risk of maternal and infant mortality.
Moreover, child brides often find themselves trapped in abusive and unequal relationships. With limited life experience and support, they are more vulnerable to domestic violence and have limited agency to make decisions about their own lives. This further perpetuates gender inequality and denies these girls their basic human rights.
While child marriage is a deep-rooted issue, efforts are being made to combat this harmful practice in Malaysia. The government has recently set a minimum legal age for marriage at 18 for both boys and girls, but there are exceptions in cases involving Islamic law. However, stricter enforcement and increased awareness are necessary to bring about real change and protect the rights of Malaysia’s young girls.
Civil society organizations, activists, and religious leaders also play a crucial role in advocating against child marriage. By raising public awareness, challenging cultural norms, and providing support to vulnerable girls, they contribute significantly to creating a safe and inclusive society where every child can flourish.
It is essential for the Malaysian government and society as a whole to come together to address child marriage as a grave violation of human rights. By investing in comprehensive education programs, empowering young girls, and implementing strict legal measures, we can put an end to this harmful practice and create a brighter future for the next generation.
Child marriage in Malaysia remains a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. It is a violation of human rights and perpetuates gender inequality, denying young girls the opportunity to lead empowered lives. By working together, we can eradicate this practice and create a society that values the well-being and potential of every child.
Human right activist
Nada Foundation
