Implement child safety measures in high-rise buildings

The children’s commissioner of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam), expresses deep sadness and concern over the tragic death of a seven-year-old girl who fell from the 29th floor of a condominium in Puchong, Subang Jaya, on 21 May.

This devastating incident occurred just four days after a two-year-old boy was found dead after falling from the seventh floor of an apartment in Precinct 9, Putrajaya.

These back-to-back tragedies are not isolated accidents. They are preventable deaths that starkly expose the failure to implement essential safety measures in high-rise residential buildings.

These children did not have to die. Their loss is a direct consequence of a systemic failure to prioritise child safety where it matters most: at home.

As a state party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, Malaysia is duty-bound to protect every child’s right to life, development and protection from foreseeable harm. A safe home environment is not a luxury. Providing a safe home environment is a legal and moral obligation.

The children’s commissioner urges the government (federal and states) and relevant stakeholders to take urgent action by implementing the following measures to prevent further tragedies:

These deaths were not accidents – they were preventable. The absence of basic safety features in high-rise homes directly contributed to the loss of these young lives. This is unacceptable in any society that claims to uphold children’s rights.

Suhakam calls upon all actors – federal and state Governments, local authorities, developers, joint management bodies, management bodies or corporations and communities – to take immediate and unified action. Homes must not be high-risk zones for children; they must be places of safety, protection and dignity.

To all parents, while we push for reforms to take place, vigilance is key. If you live in a high-rise residence, never leave young children unattended, and ensure safety measures are installed. Let us do all we can to prevent further loss of innocent lives. – Suhakam

Dr Farah Nini Dusuki is the children’s commission of Suhakam.