Child Marriage in Malaysia: Breaking the Cycle of Tradition
One of the main factors contributing to child marriage in Malaysia is poverty. Families living in poverty often view marrying off their daughters at a young age as a means to reduce their financial burden. They believe that by marrying their daughters early, they are transferring the responsibility of providing for them to their husbands. However, this perspective fails to recognize the long-term consequences that these young girls face, as they are forced to drop out of school, limiting their future prospects of escaping poverty.
Another factor that perpetuates child marriage in Malaysia is traditional and cultural beliefs. In some communities, the practice of marrying off young girls is deeply ingrained in their customs and traditions. Families may believe that marrying their daughters at an early age protects their purity and ensures their safety. However, this notion fails to acknowledge the physical and psychological harm that these girls may endure as a result of early marriage.
Child marriage also has serious health implications for young girls. Early pregnancy puts their health and well-being at risk, as their bodies are not fully developed to handle the complexities of childbirth. Complications during pregnancy and childbirth are more likely to occur in adolescent girls, leading to higher rates of maternal and infant mortality. Additionally, these young girls often lack access to proper healthcare and education, exacerbating the consequences of child marriage.
Efforts have been made to address the issue of child marriage in Malaysia. The government has implemented policies and laws to raise the legal age of marriage, aiming to protect young girls from this harmful practice. Non-governmental organizations and activists have also been working tirelessly to raise awareness and empower young girls to resist early marriage. Educating communities about the negative consequences of child marriage is crucial in breaking the cycle and promoting change.
To combat child marriage effectively, a multi-faceted approach is needed. It requires comprehensive efforts from all stakeholders, including government, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and families. Increasing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for young girls can provide them with the tools and support needed to resist early marriage. Furthermore, changing societal norms and challenging cultural beliefs that perpetuate child marriage is essential for long-term change.
In conclusion, child marriage in Malaysia poses numerous challenges to the well-being and future prospects of young girls. Poverty, tradition, and health consequences contribute to the persistence of this harmful practice. Efforts to address child marriage are ongoing, but significant progress requires a collaborative approach from various stakeholders. By breaking the cycle of child marriage and empowering young girls, Malaysia can ensure a brighter future for its next generation.
Human right activist
Nada Foundation
