THE nation continues to grapple with alarming levels of violence against women, despite ongoing government programmes and interventions.
Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri highlighted the persistence of the problem as she launched the 2025 End Violence Against Women (EVAW) celebration at Dataran Lang in Langkawi.
“This is a reality we must acknowledge. Violence against women continues to occur and requires collective action from all parties, not only KPWKM,” she said.
Recent statistics from the Domestic Violence Data Working Committee indicate that five states—Selangor, Perak, Johor, Kedah, and Sabah—record the highest numbers of reported cases up to June 2025.
Nancy emphasised the importance of public awareness and education in addressing domestic violence and sexual harassment.
“The Women’s Development Department has conducted 101 advocacy programmes from January to October this year, reaching more than 74,397 participants, alongside awareness initiatives in schools involving nearly 4,000 students,” she said.
Such programmes aim to shift societal perceptions and provide young people with tools to protect themselves.
Among these initiatives is the Domestic Violence Kit, introduced as Kit CeKaL—short for “Emergency, Tidy, and Escape Kit”—launched on 20 August.
“This kit is a pre-prepared bag for victims to enable rapid self-evacuation during dangerous or life-threatening situations,” Nancy explained.
The minister also voiced concern over the sharp rise in sexual harassment cases, citing Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) data.
“Cases increased from 477 in 2022 to 522 in 2023 and surged to 788 in 2024. Alarmingly, up to October 2025, 872 cases have been recorded,” she said, stressing that small acts of attentiveness can make a critical difference.
“A simple question, ‘Are you okay?’ could save a life. The safety of women is everyone’s responsibility.”
During the Langkawi event, the iconic eagle sculpture was illuminated in orange to symbolise national solidarity and commitment to ending violence against women.
Nancy also officiated the Zero Violence Tolerance Programme, a preventative initiative raising awareness about sexual harassment in workplaces, educational institutions, and the wider community.
The minister chaired the National Women and Family Council meeting, which outlined strategic policies and initiatives for women’s empowerment and family development.
Nancy stressed that the council serves as a vital platform to ensure issues affecting women and families are heard and addressed at higher decision-making levels.
Despite extensive government programmes and public outreach, the rising figures underscore the urgent need for sustained awareness, proactive community engagement, and coordinated efforts to protect women and reduce violence nationwide. - November 28, 2025
