KOTA BELUD, 27 May 2025 — The Addressing Early Child Marriage (MIPA) Programme in Kota Belud district successfully brought together 209 participants. Held at Dewan Tun Said Bin Keruak from 8 am to 2 pm, it was opened by the Honourable Datuk Flovia Ng, Assistant Minister of Community Development and People's Wellbeing.
The programme was a joint effort by the Sabah Women's Affairs Department with the Kota Belud District Office and UPPM N8 Pintasan, N9 Tempasuk, N10 Usukan and N11 Kadamaian. It aimed to raise public awareness of the dangers and prevention of early child marriage and provide important information to local communities.
Activities included participation certificates and goodie bags, lucky draws, Rahmah sales and service counters from government agencies and JHEWA's strategic partners.
Experienced speakers included Noor Azah Abd Rahman (Lawyer), Dr Hjh Ananlangka Mad Kassim (Registered Counsellor) and Suzanna Piny (LPPKN Senior Assistant Director), who shared information on human rights and the legal aspects of the issue.
The programme's success reflects the commitment of all parties to prevent early child marriage and strengthen public awareness. It is hoped that this initiative will have a positive impact and help protect children's rights in Kota Belud district.
The programme reaffirmed that cooperation and community awareness are essential to securing a brighter future for children, free from inappropriate social pressure.