(From third left) Lim and Ong with the other organisers during the press conference. — Courtesy photo
THE Penang Goes Orange 2024 (PGO2024) campaign − now in its 11th year − was launched to address the pressing issue of gender-based violence, with a special emphasis on combating online sexual violence.
The campaign organised by Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) will run from now to Dec 10, coinciding with the international “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence”.
This year’s theme, #Swipe2Stop, aims to raise awareness about the increasing threat of online abuse, especially among youths who are the most active digital platform users.
Penang social development, welfare and non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said the campaign highlighted the psychological toll of cyber offences such as stalking, hate speech, extortion, trolling and doxing.
“Sexual violence has evolved beyond physical spaces to include the digital realm, causing victims immense anxiety, social isolation, and mental health challenges.
“The campaign’s focus is to educate the public about legal rights, reporting mechanisms and available support services.
“Every ‘swipe’ should promote positivity and amplify vulnerable voices. Together, we can make the digital world a safer, more inclusive space,” she told a press conference.
The official launch of PGO2024 will be held on Dec 7 at the UiTM Penang campus in Permatang Pauh with more than 1,000 participants expected.
The event will include a panel discussion titled “Shared Responsibility: Combating Online Violence,” featuring experts from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), police and the Women’s Centre for Change (WCC).
To engage younger audience, Lim said the campaign introduced the Orange AR Digital Explorace Challenge, an augmented reality activity developed by Digital Penang. It combines quizzes and tasks related to online sexual violence. The Challenge has RM4,000 in prizes for winning teams.
Additionally, the campaign will feature two weeks of Orange Week activities organised by 40 strategic partners and local women’s and family development committees (JPWK).
These events aim to encourage perpetrators to stop their harmful behaviour and help victims to seek the necessary support.
A video addressing non- consensual sharing of intimate images will be distributed widely on various digital platforms.
Iconic landmarks, including Komtar and the Penang City Hall, will be illuminated in orange to symbolise hope and a commitment to a violence-free society.
PWDC chief executive officer Datuk Ong Bee Leng, who was present, said an online survey conducted by Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC) earlier this year revealed alarming insights into the prevalence of online sexual violence.
“The three-month survey garnered a response from over 700 participants.
“This is crucial as it provides up-to-date data on the extent of this issue in society, identifies the most affected group and highlights the most common forms of online sexual violence as well as associated risk factors.
“The final evaluation is currently being analysed by the Penang Institute and the full findings will be presented during the launch of PGO2024,” she added.
Ong highlighted the need for collective action, stating that by illuminating the landmarks in orange, they were sending a strong message of solidarity and hope, and also a call to action for all citizens to unite against gender-based violence.
Also present was Penang youth, sports and health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen who said online sexual violence disproportionately affected youths, often leading to severe mental health crises, so this campaign was crucial in empowering young people to navigate the digital world responsibly.
He urged the development of a youth mapping system to improve data collection for targeted prevention programmes.
“No one should have to endure the humiliation and harm caused by online abuse.
“PGO2024 reflects Penang’s enduring commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive community.
“By addressing the complexities of online violence, the campaign aims to empower victims, educate the public and hold perpetrators accountable,” he said.
For more details on the activities, visit PWDC’s website.
