Malaysia records 388 sexual harassment cases in first five months
BUTTERWORTH: Malaysia recorded 388 sexual harassment cases in the first five months of this year, including 29 in Penang, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying said.
Malaysia reported a total of 388 instances of sexual harassment during the first five months of the year, according to Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying. Penang recorded 29 of these cases. The number of reported cases has been increasing, rising from 477 in 2022 to 788 in 2024 and 1,038 last year. Lim emphasized that this surge is not solely due to an actual increase in incidents but may also reflect heightened awareness and victims' willingness to seek assistance.
Sexual harassment encompasses a range of behaviors beyond physical contact, including verbal and digital forms of inappropriate conduct. Speaking at the Zero Tolerance of Violence (Respect the Boundaries) program at SMJK Chung Ling, Lim stressed that everyone deserves to feel secure, respected, and shielded from harassment and violence.
The government has bolstered its response to sexual harassment through the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 (Act 840), which includes the Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment (TAGS). As of September 20, 142 complaints had been submitted to TAGS, with 97 successfully resolved.
Lim stressed that laws and protective measures are inadequate without promoting greater awareness and the courage to speak out. She encouraged students who feel threatened or uncomfortable to reach out to trusted adults, like parents, guardians, teachers, or counselors, instead of concealing their experiences. She also urged friends to be more observant of changes in their peers' behavior and to respond with empathy rather than judgment.
A simple inquiry such as "Are you okay today?" can initiate meaningful assistance, Lim noted. The five key messages from the program include knowing one's boundaries, speaking up, not suffering in silence, caring for friends, and respecting others' boundaries. Lim highlighted that Talian Kasih 15999 is available 24/7, and complaints can also be submitted via WhatsApp at 019-261599.
She urged teachers and school counselors to recognize signs of harassment or violence, offer empathetic support, and ensure appropriate referrals. Lim emphasized that fostering safer and more respectful environments should extend beyond schools to homes, friendships, and the broader community.
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