Scope of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 would be broadened

The government would be broadening the scope of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017 (SOAC).

Law and institutional reform minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the proposed amendment is vital due to online sexual exploitation of children is also a cross-border issue.

Under section 3 of the SOAC, Malaysians committing an offence beyond Malaysian borders are considered as committing the crime in Malaysia.

“This provision allows legal action to be taken against Malaysian citizens committing such offences abroad.

“The government is currently conducting a thorough study to broaden the scope of this legal protection to encompass situations where offences are committed against Malaysian children by any person outside the country,” she said in a statement.

When the act was amended last year, there were inclusion to make it relevant with technological developments and protect children from sexual exploitation and online abuse.

“One of the main gaps in the law that must be bridged and given priority is the sexual abuse of children online.

“Technological advancements have made access to the internet easier for all, including children,” Azalina told the Dewan Rakyat then.