Lawyers want Domestic Violence Act amended

PETALING JAYA: The Domestic Violence Act 1994 should be amended to extend protection to either party of an unmarried couple, who may be a victim of physical, mental or emotional abuse, says a lawyer.

Currently, it only provides for children, family members and spouses, including “de facto spouse” – a person who has undergone a form of wedding ceremony according to their custom or religion and regardless of whether the marriage is legally registered.