Sabah Detects 95 Unlicensed Childcare Centres, Parents Urged to Choose Registered Taska | KiddyNews

Most Centres Awaiting Licence Approval or Renewal

Sabah has identified 95 childcare centres (taska) operating without licences, with many currently awaiting approval or licence renewal from the relevant authorities.

State Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing Minister Datuk Julita Majungki said most of these centres are in the process of registration, while others are pending approval due to stricter requirements imposed by local authorities and agencies such as the Fire and Rescue Department.

Registered Centres Offer Greater Protection for Children

Julita urged parents to enrol their children only in registered childcare centres, stressing that licensed operators are required to comply with strict regulations before opening and throughout their daily operations.

She said registered centres undergo regular monitoring by the authorities, providing an added layer of protection against abuse, neglect and poor caregiving practices.

Referring to recent childcare abuse cases reported in the news, Julita said these incidents highlight the importance of choosing centres that meet official safety and operational standards.

Sabah Faces Shortage of Childcare Places

Speaking after officiating the state-level Taska Day celebration, Julita said Sabah currently has only 230 licensed childcare centres, pointing to a significant shortage of childcare services.

She noted that the state’s population of children aged 0 to 4 is projected to reach 445,000 by 2030, creating a need for at least 110,000 childcare places to meet future demand.

Julita added that investing in quality early childhood care is essential for children’s development and the country’s long-term human capital.

Operators Must Comply with Childcare Laws

Under the Child Care Centre Act 1993, childcare operators in Sabah must comply with licensing requirements and operational regulations.

Those found operating without approval risk enforcement action, including the sealing of premises, fines or prosecution.

Source:

The Star – “Almost 100 daycare centres in Sabah operating without licence”

Thoughtfully adapted by KiddyNews. Keeping parents and educators informed with the latest ECCE developments from Malaysia and beyond.