Baby hatches have significantly helped in saving many infants from being abandoned, but the rising number of cases is a growing concern, according to Riza Alwi, OrphanCare Foundation’s advocacy, communications, and fundraising manager.
Last year, OrphanCare’s baby hatch initiatives saved 55 infants. However, from January to July this year, 46 babies have been rescued, bringing the total number saved since the foundation’s establishment in 2009 to 604. This includes 106 infants placed in the hatches and 495 brought in directly by their mothers.
The rescued infants were all under two weeks old, with some just five days old. Some arrived covered in blood with the placenta still attached, while others were left with clothes and feeding bottles. Regardless of their condition, the babies are always sent to nearby hospitals for medical assessments to ensure they receive necessary healthcare.
Each life saved is a small victory against the harsh realities faced by young mothers and their infants, Riza said. While it is uplifting to see the infants given a chance at life, they are also a reminder of the difficult circumstances and struggles that brought their mothers to OrphanCare.
The number of young mothers, particularly university students aged 18 to 25, who abandon their babies is rising. This is often due to a lack of adequate knowledge in sex education, leading to unintended pregnancies. Some of these young mothers are victims of sexual abuse and coercion, and fear the overwhelming responsibility of raising a child.
Riza emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive sex education programs and robust support systems to effectively address the challenges faced by young mothers and vulnerable populations. OrphanCare baby hatch centers are open around the clock to provide support whenever needed.
There are eight baby hatches nationwide, including three OrphanCare centers in Petaling Jaya, Johor Bahru, and Sungai Petani. Additionally, there are five baby hatches in KPJ hospitals in Damansara, Ipoh, Tawakal Kuala Lumpur, Seremban, and AnNur Specialist Hospital in Bangi.
Petaling Jaya has seen an increasing number of mothers using baby hatches and consulting with OrphanCare. However, some mothers are reluctant to use the hatches due to the public nature of hospitals. Constant security surveillance and visitor supervision dissuade some mothers from using the hatches placed there.
Riza stressed the critical importance of hospitals, especially government ones, in providing baby hatches to support vulnerable mothers and ensure the safety and well-being of newborns. These facilities need to offer accessible and confidential options such as baby hatches, which can help prevent infants from being abandoned in unsafe conditions and provide timely medical care and support.
While OrphanCare works with various hospitals and organizations to provide comprehensive care and support for infants, its baby hatch program faces challenges such as limited capacity and the constant need for public awareness and support. OrphanCare also promotes public education and maintains transparent operations to address criticisms and boost awareness.
“We understand the concerns and are committed to educating the public about our efforts,” Riza said. “Our programs cover reproductive health, contraception, and sex education, often in collaboration with universities, and aim to reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies.”
