Kuala Lumpur: Issues related to sexual behaviour among teenagers require urgent attention through an integrated and holistic approach involving parents, the community, and authorities, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar. He highlighted the alarming rise in rape and incest cases involving minors, which necessitates immediate action to address these high-risk lifestyle behaviours threatening the well-being of the younger generation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Na’im stressed the importance of strengthening the prevention strategy through Holistic Sexuality Education (PSH). This approach focuses on five dimensions of sexuality: intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual, and physical (biological). He outlined that PSH must include three key elements: suitability with the maturity level of children, alignment with religious values, culture, and customs, and reliance on accurate data and scientific studies.
He further stated that parents and adults must be equipped with basic knowledge of PSH and the skills necessary to discuss sexuality issues with teenagers respectfully and appropriately. Teenagers, in turn, should be provided with basic PSH knowledge to help them make informed and responsible decisions about their sexuality.
For teenagers dealing with sexual-related issues, Mohd Na’im advocated for harm reduction strategies to mitigate risks such as mental health disorders, teenage pregnancy, abortion, and sexually transmitted infections. He emphasized the necessity for parents of involved teenagers to be informed and supported in protecting their children from continuing engagement in high-risk behaviours.
Mohd Na’im also called for stern legal action against individuals or parties responsible for exploitation, including sexual abuse, obscenity, and rape that harm teenagers. He urged all parties, including family institutions, schools, mosques, NGOs, and government agencies, to collaborate in creating a safe and effective support system to guide teenagers towards a path blessed by Allah SWT.