Not A Crime To Leave Babies At Baby Hatch Says Minister

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 Nancy Shukri says such acts are not considered a criminal offence as long as there are no elements of wrongdoing, such as physical abuse.
Mothers who surrender their unwanted babies are encouraged to come forward to help register their child’s birth and confirm their citizenship, said Nancy Shukri. (Bernama pic)PETALING JAYA: Mothers who leave their unwanted babies at hatches will not face legal action, said women, family and community development minister Nancy Shukri
Speaking to FMT, Nancy said such acts are not considered a criminal offence as long as there are no elements of wrongdoing, such as physical abuse.
She was commenting about a recent case of a 14-day-old baby boy who was left at the baby hatch of a private medical centre in Kuching. The Borneo Post reported that the baby was found fully clothed with a feeding bottle and a handwritten note that read “Izzy Haziq (L), 14/6/2025 @ 11.40PM.”
The case has sparked debate online, with some social media users questioning the purpose of baby hatches, while others questioned the need for the welfare department to trace the mother.
Nancy said the department encourages mothers to come forward to help register their child’s birth and confirm their citizenship, as babies left at baby hatches must have their birth, nationality, and guardianship status verified for legal protection.
“This requires the involvement of the mother – even in a minimal capacity – to assist with investigation and documentation by authorities such as the national registration department.
“All information shared by the mother is confidential and protected by law. The welfare department ensures this process is carried out with respect, ethics, and in line with the best interests of the child,” she said.
Nancy said there are mechanisms in place to legally register babies even if the mothers do not come forward, thus ensuring the child is not left undocumented.

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