KUALA LUMPUR: Individuals facing online sexual harassment can seek justice by bringing their cases to the Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal, according to Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
Teo explained that under the law, victims of harmful or abusive online comments have the right to file a suit with this tribunal for review. Established in March 2024, the tribunal is designed to be easily accessible, allowing victims to represent themselves without a lawyer. All cases must be resolved within 60 days.
"If harassment occurs online, the law allows us to approach the Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal, where a judge will determine if the case constitutes sexual harassment. They can decide whether an apology is necessary or if a monetary award should be issued," she stated.
Teo, who also serves as DAP Women Chief, made these remarks during her speech at the launch of the Selangor DAP Women's Free Legal Advice Programme, held in conjunction with International Women's Day on Sunday (March 8).
She acknowledged the significant challenges in pursuing cases of online harassment, particularly in identifying anonymous perpetrators. Unlike physical harassment, where the abuser is often known, online offenders frequently hide behind fake profile pictures or anonymous accounts, making it difficult for victims to seek redress.
"When someone makes a sexist comment online, how can a victim even begin legal proceedings when the abuser remains faceless, nameless, and unaccountable?" she questioned.
Teo also highlighted the rising threat of AI-driven digital violence, such as deepfake pornography, which disproportionately targets women. She stressed that technology platforms cannot evade their responsibility and must be held accountable for the tools that facilitate such acts.
"We must advocate for gender-inclusive AI governance, ensuring women are represented at every decision-making level. Additionally, we need to cultivate a culture of accountability where companies can no longer hide behind excuses like 'the algorithm did it' and act as if they have no responsibility at all," she asserted.
Regarding the legal advice program, Teo emphasised that its primary goal is to provide women in Selangor who are not currently represented by lawyers with professional, organised, and easily accessible initial legal advice or consultation. To start, the service has gathered a panel of 10 lawyers to assist participants. – Bernama
