You may have heard that children ought to be seen and not heard, but we believe that their voices matter! As we celebrate World Children’s Day on 20 November, we recognise that as a global society, we have come a long way. Great progress has been made to ensure that children are not just seen, but also heard, respected and included.

Through your support, World Vision has contributed to 201 policy changes or improvements in the implementation of regulations surrounding children’s rights in 45 countries. The best news? Around 129 million vulnerable children are benefitting from these improvements today!

Child Rights Coalition Malaysia publishes report on child rights

On the local front, Child Rights Coalition Malaysia recently published the Status Report on Child Rights in Malaysia 2019, which includes World Vision Malaysia’s survey findings from communities in Mukim Tulid and Tatalaan, Sabah.

The Status Report provides a comprehensive update of how Malaysia is implementing its commitments as a signatory of the Convention of the Rights of the Child (CRC), covering key areas such as education, health, child rights, violence against children and special protections. You’ll also find a special insert, Children and the COVID-19 Pandemic, that highlights the unique challenges arising from the coronavirus and its impact on Malaysia’s children.

To access the full report, click here.

Myanmar lights the way with Child Rights Law

In July 2019, Myanmar enacted a new Child Rights Law and we can now look forward to better protection of children’s rights in the country! World Vision Myanmar played an active role in the NGO advisory group, working with the government throughout the drafting process. We also engaged Members of Parliament, sharing with them the need for such a law.

What did WV Myanmar fight for?

Individuals wishing to get married must be at least 18 years old

Children are protected from the worst forms of child labour

Children engaged in armed conflict are entitled to special protection

As a member of the Country Task Force on Monitoring and Reporting, WV Myanmar also advocated for the government to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict (OPAC). On 27 September 2019, Myanmar became a signatory to OPAC.

How can I make a difference for children?

We’re glad you asked. Although we’ve made tremendous steps towards a safer world for children, there is still work to be done. Here in Malaysia, there are several ways we can all work together to protect the rights of our children. From learning about child protection to knowing where to get help, you can become a voice for the voiceless through advocacy and action.

Host a World Vision Malaysia’s Child Protection Workshop
Report any cases of concern to Talian Kasih 15999 (a 24-hour hotline for those seeking help regarding welfare, abuse, reproductive health and abandoned babies)
Donate to the Advocacy Fund; your giving will be used to further child protection efforts in Malaysia and beyond.

In 2023, 83% of donations collected were used for programmes that benefit children, families and communities in need.
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This Children's Day, Stand Up and Speak Out