Caning is Harsh, But It's a Sign of Love

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
 makes life a wonderful journey.

            The proposal to make the caning of children a criminal act has triggered heated arguments. While some agree with the amendment to the Child Act 2001, some feel the suggestion does not hold water. It is our responsibility to defend children’s rights but the decision should not be finalised until every aspect is meticulously studied.

            If the caning of children is criminalised, will the decision ensure that children behave better and become good citizens?  

We are aware that negative influences are silent killers that destroy today’s generation. Children's personalities are determined by their surroundings. Mere advice and frequent reminders do not work for rebellious children. So, when parents lose power over their children, it is feared that children will grow up and cause trouble to the family, school and society. At this stage, children are harder to control and it may be too late for punishment.

In my opinion, it is a drastic decision to resort to punishing parents who cane their children. There may be some parents who cane their offspring excessively and emotionally but the rest take the action effectively and rationally. Otherwise, there would not be successful people who took education and good manners seriously.

If there is no pain, there is no gain. Caning could lead to positive effects that involve immediate and long-term results. It is “able” to make children study harder, manage time wisely, think rationally, show respect and, most importantly, they will think twice before misbehaving. These attitudes and attributes will help them become individuals. Strict parenting provides strong fundamentals for children to face future challenges that will either make or break their lives. 

Caning may be a traditional method but it does not mean that it is not practical. In fact, it may become a preventive measure for parents to protect their children from negative influences. When parents cane, it is a warning for children to behave. This will also encourage children to be disciplined and careful in their decisions and actions.

           The difference between abusive parents and caring parents is the former cane to hurt while the latter cane to teach. Ruthless parents deserve to face the music of their inhumane acts but other parents should not be punished for educating their offspring.

            Caning may sound harsh but it is a sign of love, attention, responsibility and concern. Many children today are spoiled by parents who will not punish them even after committing serious mistakes. Consequently, these children lead meaningless lives. Children who are brought up by strict parents, on the other hand, learn how to be strong, wise and independent.  

            It is important to realise that smart and sensible parents will not cane their children without good reasons and good intentions. They know their limits and they know what is best for their children. For children who misbehave and show disrespect, a soft tactic, such as talking, is not always effective as, most of the time, actions speak louder than words.   

Courtesy of New Straits Times

3 February 2015