A baby girl was allegedly abandoned by a couple at a daycare centre in Malacca, Malaysia, over three months ago — and authorities have yet to locate them. The state’s Social Welfare Department (JKM) has since taken custody of the infant and is now appealing to the public for help identifying the couple.

According to a media release by JKM, a man and a woman believed to be in their 40s had brought the baby to a daycare centre in Semabok, Malacca, on 17 March 2025. The infant, estimated to be about three or four months old at the time, was left in the care of the centre and never picked up.

CCTV footage captured the couple arriving with the child, dressed in red and blue attire. Despite assurances that they would return, the pair failed to show up even after two days had passed.

Baby Named ‘Alyssa’ Temporarily, Has No Identification Papers

The baby, currently named “Alyssa” by caretakers, had no identification documents with her when she was left behind. The welfare department has since assumed full responsibility for her under Malaysia’s Child Act 2001, Section 17(1)(d), which allows for the state to intervene in situations involving neglected or abandoned minors.

A photo of the baby, shared by authorities, shows her to be in stable condition. However, without documentation or next-of-kin, she cannot be legally adopted or enrolled into any official registry.

The authorities are urging the biological mother, any family members, or anyone with relevant information to come forward. They may contact the department directly or call the Child Protection Hotline at 06-3333333.

Child Abandonment Cases Prompt Concern in Malaysia

This incident adds to a growing number of child abandonment cases in Malaysia, many of which involve young or financially struggling parents. Welfare groups have long emphasised the importance of education, early intervention, and accessible support systems to prevent such tragedies.

Abandoning a child without making arrangements for their welfare is a serious offence under Malaysian law and may result in criminal charges once the individuals are identified.

As the search for the missing couple continues, social workers and the public remain hopeful that someone who recognises the pair in the CCTV footage will come forward, ensuring that baby Alyssa’s future is not left in limbo.