The public outcry against the recent case in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah of the 40-year old alleged rapist marrying his 13-year old rape victim highlights again the prevalence of child marriage in Malaysia.



As Malaysians, the onus to defend and uphold the rights of children lies with us to ensure that their rights are not contravened when they depend on us to provide them the protection that they seek. Ending child marriage is an issue that need concerted efforts by the government and the public as tradition, religion and poverty will continue to fuel the practice of child marriage unless we put a end to it for good.

"If an under-aged person is not allowed to buy cigarettes, drive or vote, why should any leeway be given to allow the child to get married?"



~ Ratna Osman, Executive Director of Sisters in Islam~