Lean on us: call our free hotline, Rina tells domestic violence victims

KUALA LUMPUR – Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun has assured victims of domestic violence that they can lean on the government’s shoulders for support via its free helpline.

In a tweet today, the Titiwangsa lawmaker also urged those who witness domestic violence or are victims of abuse themselves to lodge police reports immediately.  

“We want to be a shoulder you can lean on,” she said. “Report immediately if you or anyone around you is a victim of domestic violence. Don’t be silenced by violence. 

“Talian Kasih is available 24 hours a day to help you,” said Rina, who also heads Srikandi Bersatu (women’s wing). 

We want to be a shoulder you can lean on.

Laporkan segera sekiranya anda atau individu sekitar anda menjadi mangsa keganasan rumah tangga.

Don’t be silenced by violence. Talian kasih tersedia 24 jam untuk bantu anda. https://t.co/QTZp1CSfhi

— Rina Mohd Harun (@RinaMohdHarun) October 7, 2021

On September 23, Rina told the Dewan Rakyat that a total of 9,015 cases of domestic violence were recorded since the start of the movement control order (MCO) in March 2020 until August this year. 

Based on police statistics, 4,110 cases were recorded between March and December 2020, and 4,905 cases from January to August this year.

“The ministry remains committed to reducing domestic violence cases, especially during the MCO period, which has impacted many family institutions and households in the country due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” she had said. 

She also noted a reduction in domestic violence cases, with 5,260 recorded last year compared to 5,657 in 2019. 

In an effort to reduce such cases, Rina said, the ministry continued several initiatives, including Talian Kasih 1599 and the WhatsApp hotline at 019-261-5999 for individuals to report domestic violence.

“These 24-hour services serve as a single point of contact for victims to contact us for support and assistance, which includes psychosocial services. This will help the public or victims not continue to be trapped in the cycle of domestic violence, which could harm themselves or their family members. 

“The communication channels also serve as a platform for individuals to report domestic violence involving others.” 

She said the Talian Kasih line led to 2,286 cases reported to police between March and December last year. 

Between January and August this year, she said, the line recorded 2,248 complaints.– The Vibes, October 7, 2021