KOTA SAMARAHAN: Sexual harassment victims should come forward to report their experiences or seek counseling services provided by the Women, Family, and Community Development Ministry (KPWKM), according to Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. The minister emphasized the importance of addressing both the emotional and procedural aspects of such incidents.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nancy highlighted the role of counselors in offering guidance and advice to help victims manage the challenges they face. She encouraged victims to file police reports, noting that while women are often targeted, men also face harassment but may hesitate to speak out due to feelings of shame. “Sexual harassment can have a significant impact on one’s mental well-being. Counselors can help victims understand their options and the procedures they can follow. Ultimately, the decision lies with the victim, and counselors will respect whatever course of action they choose,” Nancy stated.

Speaking at a press conference following the
Zero Tolerance for Violence @ Sexual Harassment Advocacy program at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), Nancy noted that most male victims fall within the 20 to 40 age range. During a dialogue session at the event, she shared that one of KPWKM’s initiatives to combat harassment is the establishment of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal (TAGS).

“As of December 5 this year, a total of 21 sexual harassment complaints have been filed with TAGS, with 19 women, a little girl, and a man among the complainants,” Nancy reported. Police statistics also indicate a rise in cases, with 666 incidents reported by October, up from 522 in 2023, marking a 9.4 percent increase. In Sarawak alone, 12 cases have been recorded this year.