Lately, there have been many reports on crimes of sexual nature, especially incest. Like skeletons in the closet, these abominable acts are being exposed after years of sexual abuse.
According to the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, 1,796 incest, 1,152 unnatural sex and 6,014 molest cases involving children were reported between 2010 and May last year.
These children fell victim to their fathers, stepfathers, uncles, brothers and, sometimes, grandfathers. The victims are warned not to report the sexual act to family members and, out of fear, they keep silent.
The sexual abuse goes on for years, and even if the family members find out about it, they do not do anything for fear of repercussions.
Two years ago, there was the shocking report of a girl being kept a sex slave by her father for 12 years. The girl had been raped since she was 6 in her home by her father.
Although the girl had told her mother about her ordeal, the mother was unable to do anything for fear of being assaulted by her husband.
The girl stopped bringing up the matter, as every time she did, the father would beat her seven other siblings. She gave in to her father’s lust for 12 years.
Finally, the 18-year-old Sixth Former broke her silence and confided to her teacher. The 42-year-old father was arrested after the girl lodged a report.
Crimes of incestuous nature occur because no one in the family reports them. The husband is usually the sole breadwinner of the family, so the mother becomes an unwilling accomplice.
In Limbang, a grandfather, father and cousins were held over the rape of a 12-year-old girl. They have been raping the girl since last year.
How many more girls are being forced into sex slavery in their own homes? This must stop.
Children are attaining puberty early due to diet and modern lifestyle. They must be informed of the physical and sexual changes that take place in their bodies.
Sexual perverts take advantage of innocent children.
Most children suffer in silence because they do not know who to turn to for help.
Sex education is one place to start.
Schools must educate the young on sexual advances and sexuality. Reproductive health should be taught from Year One.
The module should focus on family values and how to protect children from sexual perverts. Children must learn how to prevent sexual violation.
SAMUEL YESUIAH
Seremban, Negri Sembilan