Combating child labour in Malaysia: Addressing root causes through legal, economic, and educational reforms.

Abstract

Child labour remains a persistent and critical issue globally, including in Malaysia, where it threatens the well-being, education, and future opportunities of children. Defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as work that impairs children's development, education, and health, child labour is deeply rooted in poverty, socio-economic disparities, cultural norms, and weak legal enforcement. Despite Malaysia’s legal frameworks, such as the Children and Young Persons (Employment) Act 1966 and labour ordinances in Sabah and Sarawak, gaps remain in enforcement, especially regarding vulnerable populations like refugees and stateless children. This report explores the multidimensional aspects of child labour, including its definitions, contributing factors, effects on children's physical and mental health, and broader socio-economic implications. It emphasizes that child labour perpetuates cycles of poverty, reduces educational attainment, and undermines national development by weakening human capital formation. Challenges such as poverty, informal employment, globalization, and ineffective enforcement further complicate efforts to eradicate child labour. The report concludes by recommending a multi-faceted approach involving legal reform, poverty alleviation, access to education, public awareness, and international cooperation. Only through integrated, sustained, and inclusive efforts can Malaysia effectively combat child labour and protect the rights and future of all children.