KUALA LUMPUR – The Sexual Harassment Bill is being drafted collectively via a special projects team and is expected to be tabled in Parliament this year, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun.
In a statement today, she said the team comprises representatives from the relevant ministries and agencies, and non-governmental organisations, as well as academics.
“The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has also held several engagement sessions, including with the Malaysian Employers’ Federation, Prolintas, Tribunal for Consumer Claims Malaysia, and Housing and Strata Management Tribunal to get their input.”
She said the draft bill has been jointly reviewed by the ministry and Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) since January to ensure the law effectively plugs existing gaps.
“I would like to stress that the legislation of the Sexual Harassment Bill remains a priority of the ministry, with the close cooperation of AGC.
“The ministry is waiting for the white bill, or approval, from AGC before the bill is submitted for cabinet approval and then tabled for first reading in Parliament, which is expected to be done this year as well.”
She said the ministry is aware of the weaknesses in existing laws and policies, including the high burden of proof on victims and the lack of remedies for them.
Currently, sexual harassment cases are dealt with using other acts and regulations, she said.
“Among them are the Penal Code (Act 574), Employment Act 1995 (Act 265), Regulation 4A, Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993 (PU (A) 395/1993), and Service Circular No. 5 Year 2018, which is referred to when dealing with sexual harassment at government workplaces.” – Bernama, September 12, 2021
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