Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) has pledged to strengthen efforts to address violence against men, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, which remains underreported despite being increasingly evident. Its deputy minister, Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, said the ministry recognises that men are also at risk of becoming victims of violence and deserve appropriate protection and support.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ministry pays close attention to the issue of violence against men, although it is less reported. There are two different sets of statistics issued by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Social Welfare Department (JKM). Despite the differences, the ministry acknowledges that men are also at risk of violence and deserve protection and support, as stated by Dr. Noraini in response to a question from Senator Datuk Nelson Angang in the Dewan Negara.
Dr. Noraini explained that in domestic violence cases, investigations are carried out by JKM under the Domestic Violence Act 1994, which applies to all victims regardless of gender. The government is also working to change the perception that men do not require assistance, ensuring that all victims receive protection and society is free from all forms of violence.
In response to a question from Senator Rita Sarimah Patrick Insol regarding societal stigma against men who choose to become homemakers, Dr. Noraini said the government, through the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), has implemented various awareness programmes to promote shared responsibility in households. Through LPPKN, the Parenting at Work family development programme was introduced to provide training for married couples on sharing responsibilities in childcare and household management. This module also highlights men as key partners in household chores and childcare, aiming to reduce stigma against men who choose to be full-time homemakers.
Dr. Noraini added that KPWKM is also working with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to run community awareness campaigns on shared parenting and provide psychosocial support through the 15999 hotline.