KUALA LUMPUR: Some 21,352 employer premises have been inspected as of June 2025 as part of enforcement efforts against child labour, says Steven Sim.
The Human Resources Minister said the ministry, through the Labour Department, remains committed to addressing child labour and ensuring compliance with relevant legal provisions.
According to the Children and Young Persons (Employment) Act 1966, children under 15 are not allowed to work except in specific jobs that are explicitly permitted and do not endanger their health, safety or morals.
“As of June 2025, a total of 21,352 employer premises have been inspected.
If any violations of the law are found, strict action will be taken, including prosecution in court,” he said in a parliamentary written reply to Datuk Adnan Abu Hassan (BN–Kuala Pilah).
Adnan had asked the ministry to state its efforts in tightening and intensifying enforcement against the offence of employing underage children.
He also asked the ministry about the effectiveness of existing labour laws in preventing child labour exploitation.
Sim added that to strengthen enforcement, the Department of Labour in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak carries out regular inspections at workplaces to detect and combat child labour practices.
He added that the Human Resources Ministry also conducts awareness and educational activities for employers and the public on the importance of children’s education and the negative impact of child labour on their future development.
“The effectiveness of existing laws is also reviewed from time to time to ensure they remain relevant and effective in tackling all forms of child labour exploitation in the country,” said Sim.
