The Kelantan Social Welfare Department (JKM) has introduced stricter hiring rules for nursery (taska) babysitters, requiring all applicants to undergo background checks via the ANAK System.
JKM director Che Samsuzuki Che Noh explained that every prospective babysitter or assistant must be screened to confirm they have no criminal record or serious health issues. In addition, applicants must complete and pass the Basic Childcare Course (KAP).
“Nurseries employing unregistered babysitters or those without KAP approval will not receive a licence or registration approval from JKM,” he told reporters.
Che Samsuzuki added that all nurseries seeking JKM registration must also obtain clearance from local authorities, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, and the Health Department.
Currently, Kelantan has more than 200 registered nurseries, with 80 situated in Kota Bharu. JKM conducts regular inspections and monitors compliance closely. “For any complaints received, we act immediately, ensuring investigations and actions are completed within 24 hours,” he said.
His remarks come in the wake of an incident at Seberang Jaya Hospital, where a four-month-old boy, Hayl Haarith Mohd Syafaeez, passed away after being admitted to a 24-hour childcare centre while his mother, a hospital nurse, was on a night shift.
