KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 23 -- Children involved in underage sexual relationships, regardless of gender, require guidance and rehabilitation rather than punishment, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.

The minister said such cases must be approached with protection and support to ensure minors are not burdened with stigma or long-term trauma.

"As children, they should be given the opportunity to learn from mistakes, recover, and rebuild their lives," she said in a statement.

She further stressed that interventions should focus on counselling, structured education, and emotional support to guarantee the future wellbeing of children.

Nancy added that children's development must be considered holistic...