Obtaining assent for research involving children in Malaysia: a position statement from the Academy of Medicine of Malaysia College of Paediatrics

The Academy of Medicine of Malaysia College of Paediatrics acknowledges the role of children in research and this position statement explores the ethical considerations in obtaining assent from minors in the Malaysian context. It highlights the importance in respecting children's agency and navigating cultural complexities. The College proposes flexibility in the minimum age for assent of at least nine years old, while emphasising the need for a tailored assent procedure. Addressing language and cultural diversities and expanding local empirical research on a formal assent process are some building blocks in developing a standardised nationwide process in obtaining assent from children.