Treat children of sex workers like other kids

Star: KUALA LUMPUR: There are hundreds of children of sex workers and drug addicts in Chow Kit who badly need help, said Yayasan Salam Malaysia's consultant Dr Hartini Zainudin.
She urged society not to shun the offspring of drug addicts and sex workers but instead offer them a chance in life to develop their skills and potential.
“Those of us who are luckier should give back to society by assisting these children in any way possible.
“Many people think it is useless to help such children, claiming that they would eventually end up like their parents.
“These children are also humans, so let's help them.”
Dr Hartini said some of the children, including young girls, ended up sleeping on walkways because they did not have a home to return to.
“Some pick pocket for money to buy food for themselves or their siblings,” she added.
Yayasan Salam plans to create a safer environment for these children.
“By the end of this year, we plan to house these children in a hostel converted from a three-storey office lot.”
Dr Hartini said 90 children were now registered with their centre in Chow Kit but only 30-odd participated regularly in the activities there.
“They are taught English and activities such as drawing, singing and dancing,” she said, adding that Ira, Ish and Chiku were among the regulars.
Citing Chiku as an example, Dr Hartini said he was very withdrawn until he was introduced to the centre late last year.
“Chiku did not have a birth certificate and when everyone else started attending school at the age of seven, he wandered aimlessly in Chow Kit.
“Six months ago, we managed to obtain a birth certificate for him and later enrolled him in a nearby school.
“He is still shy but is now one of the regulars at the centre and loves participating in short plays,” said Dr Hartini, adding that the centre operates from 10am to 5pm daily.