GEORGE TOWN – Penang has set up a network of support centres to help victims of domestic abuse in the state, which has seen an increase in such cases during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Dubbed the “37 first support points”, the initiative is made up of the service centres of 29 assemblymen and eight non-profit organisations.
It is formed to provide a safe contact point to prevent or handle domestic violence cases, as well as provide a conduit between the victim and 37 “support points”.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in an online event said since the first movement control order (MCO) was imposed in March last year, there has been a 267% increase in distress calls.
“By creating more support points, I am confident that victims of domestic violence can get help more effectively.
“According to police statistics, in last April alone, a month after the MCO, 343 cases of domestic violence were reported in Penang, compared with 226 in 2019.
“Many victims of domestic violence have difficulty getting the help they need, especially during the lockdown.”
The First Support Point is a tri-party effort between the state government, grassroots community and non-governmental organisations to provide support to the domestic abuse victims.
Run by professionals, its role is to systematically channel cases to the appropriate agencies.
“The state government is very appreciative of the initiative that has been mobilised by social development exco Chong Eng,” said Chow.
“More support point development workshops will be held soon.”
He said he hopes by mobilising the First Support Point, the state will be violence-free.
During the event, Chong Eng commended support point officers, who are experienced in handling domestic violence cases, and said the state government is always ready to help.
All the professionals and volunteers are required to attend a one-day workshop last December as preparation.
A First Support Point practitioner who requested to remain anonymous told The Vibes that having these points of contact will see more domestic violence cases being reported.
However, she said it is essential to identify these issues and allow the victims to get help.
“There are many cases of depression and mental health struggles recently, and they continue to increase.
“Many shut themselves in their room and refuse medication. We will have to look into that matter soon as well.” – The Vibes, February 20, 2021
