Sexual abuse at Islamic welfare homes expose weaknesses in child protection in Malaysia

Malaysian authorities rescued 402 children, half of them boys and the rest girls, from 20 homes.

Police detained 171 suspects, including religious teachers and caretakers.

Details of alleged serious abuse at the homes have sparked outrage and shock in the predominantly Muslim nation.

Activists call for all child centers to be regulated and monitored.

Global Ikhwan in a statement denied the sexual abuse allegations, calling it an attempt by certain parties to tarnish the group’s reputation.

She also voiced concerns of possible unreported abuse cases due to Global Ikhwan's nationwide network. Islamic authorities have said they are monitoring Global Ikhwan amid concerns over attempts to revive the Arqam movement. “Who knows how many children suffer the same fate out there and also how long they have to endure this abuse before being exposed," said lawmaker Syerleena Abdul Rashid . Often hailed as a moderate Muslim nation, Malaysia is wary of groups that preach Islam not sanctioned by the government because of fears they could cause unrest. Muslims account for two-thirds of its 34 million people..