Kota Kinabalu: The establishment of the Rumah Ibu (Mother Home) Care Centre comes at the right time to provide protection and support for mothers.
Ministry of Community Development and People’s Wellbeing Permanent Secretary Datuk Maria Chong said the centre will also empower families and serve as a space for the restoration of love between mother and child.
“With this centre, we are not only preventing unnecessary separations but also strengthening the foundations of a more harmonious, resilient, and sustainable community,” said Chong during the launch of the centre at Taman Kingfisher Sulaman.
The centre will play a crucial role as a protective and rehabilitative institution, focusing on mothers and their children, especially those in vulnerable situations – such as victims of domestic violence, single mothers with low income, or those without family support, she said.
In addition to providing a safe and conducive shelter, Chong said the centre will also offer psychosocial support, counselling, basic education, as well as parenting guidance in an environment of love and care.
However, she noted that they are aware the journey ahead will not be free of challenges.
“Economic pressures, mental health issues, and family vulnerabilities are social realities we must confront.
“Yet, I am confident that through close cooperation between the government, NGOs, the private sector, and the community, we can turn challenges into opportunities, and difficulties into new hope,” said Chong.
She conveyed the Ministry’s expectations to the centre’s management to prioritise the emotional and physical wellbeing of mothers and children through professional personnel placed in this centre.
“Develop skill training programmes, small-scale entrepreneurship, and employment networks for mothers so that they can become self-reliant after leaving the centre,” she said.
She said the Ministry also expects the centre to conduct regular evaluations on the effectiveness of rehabilitation and protection programmes.
She added that the centre should also expand partnerships with NGOs, academic institutions, and the private sector to strengthen financial resources, expertise, and support networks.
“Our mission is very clear to address the challenge of social orphanhood, ensuring that every child grows up in an environment filled with love, safety, and the warmth of a family,” she said.
