The public is encouraged to dare report domestic violence

SARIKEI, Oct. 24: The public is urged to be more courageous in reporting cases of domestic violence to protect the victims, as well as eliminating the stigma that the problem should be resolved privately without outside intervention.

Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land and Environment Administration, Datuk Len Talif Salleh said that domestic violence not only involves physical injury but also includes emotional abuse, threats and actions that undermine the dignity and well-being of victims.

According to him, based on records of the Sarawak Public Welfare Department, a total of 65 cases of domestic violence were reported across the state for the period January to August 2026, up from 74 cases in all of 2025.

"The Sarikei Division recorded one case in the same period, but that low number should not cause society to consider domestic violence as a minor problem", he said.

He said this as he inaugurated the closing ceremony of the No More Silence, End Domestic Violence Act 1994 Legal Advocacy Program which was inaugurated here today.

Len Talif said community leaders play an important role as a liaison between residents and relevant agencies, including providing information on victims' rights, providing early support and helping them get protection.

She said that domestic violence does not only involve women but also men who are potentially victims of rape. Therefore, every individual has the right to protection regardless of gender.

He said the Domestic Violence Act 1994 (Act 521) provides a framework for protection of victims, but its effectiveness also depends on the willingness of the community to report incidents to authorities.

In this regard, he urged the public to immediately file a police report or contact Kasih Line 15999 if they know or suspect domestic violence.

He said the act of reporting the incident to authorities is more important than simply recording and spreading it on social media to ensure that victims are protected and appropriate action can be taken.

The program was attended by 160 Community Chiefs and People's Chiefs (KMKK) from across Sarikei district. - TVS