Affiliations 

  • 1 Orphancare Foundation Malaysia
MyJurnal

Abstract

Introduction: According to PDRM statistic, in average, 100 babies are dumped every year, in Malaysia. The stig-ma of having babies out of wedlock, feeling of desperation and lack of support are some reasons why babies were dumped at the unimaginable places. Even if they were found and saved, these babies will be placed and raised at institutions. This will lead to the negative effects of institutionalisation as they do not receive appropriate adult care and attention which is crucial in developing their potential. OrphanCare Foundation advocates and provides services that ensure babies and children who are in institutions and those whose lives are at risk grow up in the care of a loving family. Methods: OrpahnCare Foundation provides a safe haven for babies that are being abandoned through baby hatch centres, finding a family for these babies through a legal adoption programme, and deinstitutionalisation (DI) i.e. removing all children currently in institutions, to family based care. Results: Since 2010, OrphanCare Foun-dation has saved a total of 369 babies and successfully arranged for the adoption of 221 babies. Forty even children were taken out from institutions and brought home to their families. Conclusion: The best place for a child to grow up is in the love and care of a family. They will receive personalised guidance, support and love that they need to develop to their full potential.