Domestic violence remains a concern with over 4,600 cases

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 13, 2026

Malaysia reported 4,646 domestic violence cases from January to July 2026, with Johor seeing a sharp rise to 823 cases compared to the previous year, according to Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying. The government is expanding programs like Aku Wanita@KRT and the PRISMANita center to improve prevention, support services, and community awareness in addressing various forms of abuse.

Malaysia recorded 4,646 cases of domestic violence during the first seven months of 2026, with Johor reporting a notable increase to 823 cases from 518 in the same period last year, according to Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying. Speaking at the Aku Wanita@KRT advocacy programme and PRISMANita Johor Open Day held in Seri Alam, Johor Baru, Lim emphasized the urgent need for enhanced prevention measures, early intervention, and improved access to support services.

Lim highlighted that domestic violence extends beyond physical abuse to include emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as coercive control over an individual’s movements and relationships, including through digital means. She noted that abuse often starts with controlling behavior, threats, humiliation, or financial manipulation, which may initially be normalized or overlooked.

The Aku Wanita@KRT initiative aims to increase public awareness of domestic violence, inform the community about available support services, and encourage proactive responses when abuse is suspected. As of August 12, the programme had been conducted in 11 states, reaching 3,915 participants. Among them, 267 individuals received assistance through K-Chat, a group psychological intervention involving survivors, counselors, and trained facilitators.

Lim also outlined the role of PRISMANita, a one-stop centre launched in March 2026 to expedite and streamline access to government and agency services for women. The centre had served 117 people as of early August. She stressed that support for victims should extend beyond the immediate crisis, recognizing that domestic violence can also have lasting effects on children’s emotional well-being.

Additional initiatives aimed at rehabilitation and empowerment, including Sari@KRT, Matahari, Iris, and Skuad Waja, focus on restoring confidence, independence, and overall well-being among survivors. Lim further called on men, boys, and the wider community to actively participate in efforts to eliminate violence against women.

Victims of domestic violence, as well as those who suspect such abuse, were urged not to remain silent. Assistance is available through the 24-hour Talian Kasih hotline at 15999 or via WhatsApp at 019-261 5999.

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