Elopement among Teenage Girls in Malaysia: A Multidisciplinary Analysis through Maqasid al-Shariah, Sociology, and Child Protection Law

The increasing phenomenon of teenage girls eloping with non-mahram partners in Malaysia reflects a complex interplay of moral, social, and systemic challenges. This study adopts a multidisciplinary approach integrating Islamic jurisprudence through the lens of Maqasid al-Shariah, sociological theory, and Malaysian child protection law to critically examine the root causes, implications, and responses to this issue. From the perspective of Maqasid al-Shariah, such elopements undermine the protection of honour (ḥifẓ al-‘ird) and lineage (ḥifẓ al-nasl), thereby threatening family stability and exposing youth to moral and legal risks, including zina (illicit sexual relations) and social stigma. Sociological analysis reveals that peer influence, pervasive social media, weakened family structures, and insufficient religious education are key contributing factors driving adolescent girls towards such behaviour. Despite the existence of the Children Act 2001, enforcement gaps and limited preventive measures persist. This research employs qualitative content analysis and case study methods to identify behavioural patterns, contextual drivers, and policy shortcomings. The findings underscore the need for collaborative intervention involving families, educational institutions, religious authorities, and policymakers. The study concludes by advocating for a holistic, prevention-oriented strategy rooted in Maqasid al-Shariah, child protection principles, and evidence-based social policy to safeguard the dignity and well-being of Malaysian adolescents.