KUALA LUMPUR: All quarters including the authorities, non-governmental organisations and the public should play a role in protecting children from any form of abuse.
Her Highness Tunku Mahkota Johor Che' Puan Mahkota Khaleeda Bustamam said she hoped that the authorities would ensure that the 402 minors, rescued from 20 welfare homes in Selangor and Negri Sembilan, were in a better and secure condition.
"Rehabilitation measures as well as psychological and social support must be provided immediately to help them recover from the traumatic experience of being exploited," she wrote on Facebook yesterday.
She said it was the responsibility of all to ensure that the perpetrators were brought to justice without any compromise.
In addition to legal action, she said she hoped the government would take proactive measures to strengthen the monitoring of charity homes and childcare institutions.
These measures include the process of periodically auditing and monitoring to prevent any crime from reoccuring.
"Such cruel acts shall not hide behind religion. Any attempt to use religion as an excuse for inhumane acts not only insults the law but also taints the sanctity of religion.
"Religion, regardless of belief, should be the basis for love, protection and well-being of a society, especially children.
"Every religion demands justice for those who are unable to defend themselves.
"No one has the right to exploit a child's weaknesses or shortcomings, let alone hide behind religion or welfare."
On Sept 11, police rescued 402 children from 20 homes connected to GISB during a raid, leading to 171 arrests.
GISB Holdings Sdn Bhd has since denied the allegations or any connections to the case.
Meanwhile, Her Highness also expressed gratitude to the police, the Welfare Department, Health Ministry and Chemistry Department in investigating and unearthing the criminal activities.
"I would also like to thank several social activists and other individuals who raised the issue over the past few months, thus helping the authorities'investigation into the charity homes involved," she added.