By Michelle Ng
I would like to recognise and thank the community leaders and residents of Court 4 in their excellent handling of the baby dumping case. They got milk and suitably sized clothes for the child, and called the authorities so that next steps can be taken. I would like to recognise the paramedics of SJ Beacon, Subang Jaya’s Ambulance, for responding in 4 minutes and managing the case expertly.
I urge the police to take a compassionate approach in this case. The baby is estimated to be about a month old. The first 3 months is the most difficult time for parents, especially a mum. She has to heal, learn to take care of a newborn, breastfeed, deal with fluctuating hormones and lack of sleep. There is a possibility that the mother might be going through postpartum blues or depression.
The mother and/or father in this case left behind bare minimal resources for the baby: an adults’ sized shirt, a pair of socks, a pair of mittens and a head scarf. This suggests that the mum and/or dad comes from an underprivileged background.
The system should not be quick to judge. We need consider how we can help or support a mums and/or dads in such circumstances. I stand ready to walk together with the authorities in order to achieve the best outcome for the mum and/or dad and child in this case.
As a mum who went through baby blues my heart goes out to the mum and/or dad and all parents who are in similar circumstances. If you’re going through a difficult time, please reach out. We are here for you. My team and I are ready to help.
OrphanCare Foundation to date has three branches with baby hatch, namely in Petaling Jaya Selangor), Johor Bahru (Johor) and Sungai Petani (Kedah). For further details on OrphanCare, please contact: tel no: 03-77701900/010-2830528 (24 hour emergency number) or visit its website at www.orphancare.org.my.
