With sexual harassment being an unfortunate issue many people face, it can get frustrating for victims who are seeking justice against their harassers.
Sometimes, victims are blamed and trivial issues like what they were wearing when they got harassed suddenly become relevant when harassers are being defended, excusing them of any accountability for their actions.
Now, with the Sexual Harassment Act being approved by the Malaysian Youth Parliament to speed up its enactment, Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin stated an important message, according to the Malay Mail Online.
Source: Stadium
During the discussion in parliament, the minister stated,
“I personally agree with the proposal that the (Sexual Harassment Act) is enacted by the government… although some provisions may be used against those who commit this offence under the Penal Code, but we need a special act.”
“This matter also received my attention as a minister, as there were several cases resulting in rape incidents.”
Source: SinarOnline | Twitter
He added that what women wear should not be used as an excuse for sexual harassment, saying that mostly women are victims and that it isn’t fair that various reasons are brought up to justify the harassment.
Well, it’s great to see that some progress is being made! Let’s hope that this Sexual Harassment Act will be enacted soon so that more victims can receive justice!
Also read: 2017 Report: 22 Cases of Sexual Harassment Recorded on M’sian Public Transport
