PETALING JAYA: Spouses continue to be the primary perpetrators of domestic violence, followed by parents, children, ex-spouses and in-laws, according to the Telenita 2024 Q3 Report from the All Women’s Action Society (Awam).
The report reveals that 39 cases of domestic violence were reported between July and September, involving physical, mental, verbal, sexual, economic abuse and even stalking.
Some survivors experienced multiple forms of violence. Of the 39 cases, 34 victims were women, four were men, and one survivor who did not disclose the gender.
In terms of their ethnicity, 12 survivors were Chinese, 11 were Indian, four were Malay, and two were foreign nationals, with the remaining survivors opting not to reveal their race.
Selangor reported the highest number of survivors during this period with 16 cases, followed by Kuala Lumpur (five), and five cases with undisclosed locations.
Johor, Negri Sembilan and Perak each reported three cases, with Melaka and Pahang one each.
On actions taken by the survivors, 14 sought legal information, 11 lodged police reports, nine sought counselling and two required medical attention.
Some survivors took multiple actions, the report noted.
Awam services officer Pavitra Muniandy said their Telenita helpline has seen a concerning increase in gender-based violence cases in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, with this trend expected to continue next year.
“While it’s encouraging that survivors are increasingly seeking help for gender-based violence, the alarming rise in these cases demands a deeper understanding of the root causes. Focusing solely on support services for survivors is insufficient.
“We must address the perpetrators and the societal factors that contribute to this violence.
“Most perpetrators reported to Awam are men, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive education and awareness campaigns on gender equality. “These campaigns should target young boys and men across diverse sectors, including educational institutions, government agencies, religious organisations and other communities,” she said.
Pavitra also highlighted the importance of educating people on the devastating consequences of gender-based violence on individuals, families and society.
Ultimately, she said preventing violence requires not only legal and policy changes but also a fundamental shift in attitudes and behaviours.
Additionally on the report, Pavitra said there has also been a surge in mental health cases, reflecting the significant mental health impact on survivors of gender-based violence.
Many survivors, she said, sought free counselling and legal information from Awam.
For those seeking help, the Telenita helpline can be reached via phone, WhatsApp or Telegram at 016-237 4221 or 016-228 4221, Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5.30pm or by emailing telenita@awam.org.my.
