The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports said in a statement yesterday it has received a report of an unlicensed childcare facility and reminded the public that all childcare facilities must adhere to Chapter 218 of the Child Care Centres Act and registered with the Community Development Department (JAPEM).
The ministry said there are currently 74 registered and licensed childcare centres in the country that are also listed on the JAPEM website.
Among the regulations for childcare centres include applicants and employees undergoing security and criminal background checks by security agencies and health screenings; and being mandated to offer programmes that foster the development of gross and fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, as well as social and emotional development.
Public members seeking to report concerns regarding childcare facilities, including the safety and well-being of children, can notify JAPEM via Talian Anak 121. Unauthorised childcare centres or those violating the licence terms may face penalties including fines up to BND5,000, imprisonment for a maximum of two years, or both.
More information can be obtained by calling the Family, Women, and Children Division at 2380704 or email to childcarecentre@japem.gov.bn.
