Increasing Public’s Awareness of Channels for Reporting Suspected Child Abuse Cases

102 Mr Darryl David asked the Minister for Social and Family Development what more can be done to increase the public’s awareness of the channels and platforms available for reporting of suspected child abuse cases.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: I thank the Member for raising this question. Domestic violence, including child abuse, can happen to anyone and anywhere. Unfortunately, child abuse can be difficult to detect as it often happens behind closed doors. A whole-of-society effort is needed to be vigilant, to intervene and report suspected domestic abuse cases, especially child abuse, as children are more vulnerable. This means that family members, neighbours, community partners or members of public can each help to watch out for potential victims.

Members of the public can call the National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Hotline at 1800-777 0000 or make an online report via the Ministry of Social and Family Development's (MSF's) website or call the Police if there is imminent danger. From June 2024, members of the public can also report child abuse via the LifeSG App, the integrated Government e-service mobile application.

MSF has run annual public awareness campaigns since 2016. This year’s “Break the Silence” campaign was launched in June. To maximise reach, we have tapped on free-to-air TV channels, social media, out-of-home platforms like digital display panels, bus stop shelters and table-top stickers in hawker centres and coffee shops.