In recent days, cases of sexual harassment in the online sphere are worryingly increasing. Many of you have seen the way that incidents such as the V2K Telegram group, child pornography distribution, and Vitamin4Testicles continue to horrify online users. According to AWAM Telenita’s Q1 Analysis, sexual harassment in the online space should be an area of concern as many perpetrators are finding means online to reach victims.
It’s not just women who are being harassed. Men are often victims of sexual abuse too despite the stereotypes that they face. Thankfully, there are organisations that address how sexual harassment can happen and affect anyone regardless of their gender.
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If you’re a victim or you know of someone who is dealing with online harassment, you’d know that it may cause them to experience a certain degree of panic. However, victims should never feel as though they are at fault for the violation inflicted upon them. They need to know that they can seek help in these circumstances. If you’re unsure of where you can find assistance, you can start by reaching out to these organisations.
1. All Women’s Action Society (AWAM)
AWAM, an independent feminist non-profit organization envisions for the community to be free from all forms of violence and discrimination. AWAM told WORLD OF BUZZ that they extend their help to victims regardless of gender. They focus on victims and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) such as rape, domestic violence, and sexual harassment.
The services that AWAM provide aree free well-being counselling for victims of gender-based violence and free legal information based on the victim’s circumstances.
Hotline: +603 7877 4221 (9.30 am -5.30 pm)
Telenita Helpline: +6016 237 4221 / +6016 288 4221 (9.30 am -5.30 pm)
E-mail: awam@awam.org.my / telenita@awam.org.my
2.Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO)
WAO is the largest service provider for domestic violence survivors in Malaysia. They advocate gender equality and ending violence against Malaysian women. They also actively conduct awareness campaigns to create a society that respects women’s rights and dignity. Survivors or victims of sexual harassment and abuse can reach out to the organisation for a free and confidential service.
Through their TINA Helpline, they inform victims about their rights and options so that they can make informed decisions in every step of their journey. They also provide appointments for face-to-face consultations and access to other services such as shelter and social work.
Hotline: +603 3000 8858 (24 Hours)
WhatsApp/SMS: +6018 988 8058 (TINA Helpline)
E-mail: info@wao.org.my
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3. Women’s Centre for Change (WCC)
This association is determined to help victims by providing consultation means through face-to-face, telephone, and email, with confidential care. It was initiated by a group of concerned individuals when they realised that women in Penang and the northern region did not have a place to go for help. WCC also told WORLD OF BUZZ that they offer their services to victims in need irrespective of gender.
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Their services range from offering a temporary shelter if in need of an emergency home for protection, free legal advice to make the right decision to providing victims with hospital support. They also provide training for government agencies to be more sensitive towards the needs of domestic violence and sexual assault victims.
WCC Penang
Helpline: +604 228 0342 / 011-3108 4001 (9 am – 5 pm)
WCC Seberang/
Pusat Perkhidmatan Wanita (PPW)
Helpline: +604 398 8340 / 016-439 0698 (9 am – 5 pm)
E-mail: wcc@wccpenang.org / wccseberang@wccpenang.org
Telenisa by Sisters in Islam (SIS) is a non-governmental organisation that places its heart in advancing the rights of Muslim women in Malaysia with a mission to empower voices for change. This organisation has advocated campaigns to improve laws and policies and raise public awareness on matters under the Islamic Family Law.
Telenisa told WORLD OF BUZZ that they would be able to provide free legal counselling on Islamic Family Law and Syariah Criminal Offences Law available for both women and men to point victims in the right direction. Moreover, they provide services such as court observers to oversee court proceedings. They also have a Mobile Legal Aid Clinic and also offer financial assistance for filing payments for those in need.
Hotline: +603-7960 3357/5121/6733
Telenisa Helpline: +6012 812 3424 (9 am – 5 pm)
E-mail: sis@sistersinislam.org.my
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The process of reporting the issue of sexual harassment is not easy but it is important to seek help for yourself and other victims. In cases of unexpected or unwelcomed circumstances, always remember to seek confidence from a trusted person. It may be scary but staying quiet gives perpetrators free rein to keep doing what they’re doing and exploit others. Stand up and speak up against sexual harassment so that we can create a safer environment for all.
Regardless of gender, everyone deserves to feel safe and it is time to be conscious of our surroundings!
Also Read: Private Photos Leaked Without Consent & No One Can Help? Here’s What You Can Do
