Efforts under way to keep pregnant 12-year-old in school

KUCHING: The Social Welfare Department is collaborating with the family of a 12-year-old pregnant schoolgirl to devise a plan allowing her to continue her education, according to Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. The department plans to consult with the girl's family and school to explore options that would enable her to attend classes while considering her health and capabilities.

Nancy emphasized that the aim is to prevent the child from being barred from attending school, but noted that the department must also take her condition into account. The welfare department would assess the need for welfare support and psychosocial services for both the girl and her family to assist them in coping with the situation.

Additionally, arrangements for the baby's care after birth would be discussed with the family, subject to court processes and considerations. A 28-year-old Indonesian man was apprehended in Kabong following a police report filed by the school to aid the investigation.