KUCHING – Sarawak has recorded a notable decline in teenage pregnancy cases, with figures showing a 10.6 percent reduction between January and September 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
The achievement was highlighted during the One Stop Teenage Pregnancy Committee (OSTPC) Sarawak 2025 meeting, where the state government reaffirmed its commitment to tackling teenage pregnancy through coordinated multi-agency efforts and targeted intervention programmes.
Minister of Women, Child Development and Community Welfare, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, said the reduction met the state’s key performance indicators (KPIs) for child welfare.
“The percentage of pregnant students decreased by 10.6 percent… This means that our KPIs have been achieved,” she told reporters after the meeting at Wisma Bapa Malaysia.
Fatimah emphasised that beyond prevention, comprehensive support systems remain vital for those affected.
Assistance includes counselling, postpartum care, continued access to education, family support and guidance.
“The purpose of the support system is to help children who are already married and encourage them to continue their lives. We will help them start a new life by always adhering to the fact that everyone has the right to a second chance,” she explained.
While progress has been made in reducing teenage pregnancies, statistics from the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) revealed a rise in sexual offences involving children.
Reported cases increased from 10 in 2024 to 17 in 2025, marking a 70 percent jump. Authorities noted that many of these incidents were linked to communication through social media platforms such as WeChat, WhatsApp, Omi and online gaming channels.
Looking ahead, the ministry has outlined its priorities for 2026. These include enhancing the Sexual Education Advocacy Programme (KAPS) in partnership with the Sarawak State Health Office, strengthening collaboration with non-governmental organisations, and expanding sexual education initiatives for parents. The aim is to build stronger awareness and preventive measures within families and communities.
Sarawak’s efforts align with broader national strategies to address teenage pregnancy and child protection issues.
The state continues to balance preventive education with rehabilitation and support, ensuring that vulnerable children are not left behind.
With OSTPC’s steadfast approach, Sarawak is positioning itself to further reduce teenage pregnancy rates while tackling the growing challenges posed by online communication and child exploitation.
