PETALING JAYA: A safe workplace is a fundamental right, not a privilege while silence and inaction are no longer acceptable, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic).
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman called on all parties to stand united in sending a clear message that sexual harassment has no place in our workplaces.
“Sexual harassment can occur at all levels, not only between superiors and subordinates, but also among colleagues. This reality underscores the urgent need for organisations to foster a culture of respect, accountability and zero tolerance,” he said when contacted yesterday.
“The consequences of sexual harassment are profound with victims often suffering emotional distress, anxiety, and in severe cases, conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
“Beyond individual suffering, such behaviour erodes workplace morale, reduces productivity and damages organisational integrity.
The Star reported yesterday that co-workers are the most common group of people involved in sexual harassment complaints.
They made up 50 out of the total 86 of the complaints received by the Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment (TAGS) over the past two years, since it was set up on March 8, 2024.
According to findings by the International Labour Organisation, workplace harassment is significantly under-reported, often due to fear of retaliation, shame or lack of confidence in existing reporting mechanisms.
This silence allows misconduct to persist and, in some cases, escalate, he pointed out.
In light of this, Lee urged all employers, organisations and stakeholders to take decisive and sustained action to eliminate sexual harassment in the workplace.
These include enforcing zero tolerance policies, strengthening reporting mechanisms, ensuring swift and fair action, promoting education and awareness, leading by example as well as building a culture of respect and inclusion.
“Employees must have access to safe, confidential and accessible channels to report misconduct without fear of retaliation. All complaints must be investigated promptly, impartially, and transparently, with appropriate disciplinary measures taken regardless of rank or position.
“Regular training programmes should be conducted to educate employees on acceptable workplace behaviour and empower bystanders to act responsibly.
“Organisations must actively cultivate an environment where dignity, equality and mutual respect are upheld at all times,” he said.
