KUALA LUMPUR: Reported domestic violence cases in Malaysia have shown an upward trend over the past three years, according to police data.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said 5,507 cases were recorded in 2023, rising to 7,116 in 2024 and 7,391 in 2025.
“These are reported cases, but the actual number could be higher as some incidents may go unreported,” she said at a press conference at the InterContinental Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday (April 29).
She said one of the main challenges in addressing domestic violence is the tendency of victims to remain silent until the situation becomes critical.
“Some also withdraw their complaints after a few days, claiming they have reconciled,” she said.
Nancy said factors such as fear, threats, financial constraints and lack of shelter were among the reasons victims do not come forward to lodge reports.
“Some have nowhere to go or lack the financial means to support themselves and their children, forcing them to remain in such situations,” she said.
She added that prevention efforts must be strengthened through greater public awareness, including recognising early warning signs of domestic violence.
“We want the community not to turn a blind eye if they are aware of such cases happening around them,” she said.
Nancy said the ministry would also expand outreach on available support channels such as the Talian Kasih hotline at 15999, as well as services provided by the police and the Social Welfare Department.
At the same time, she said frontline agencies must play a more proactive role in the early detection of at-risk cases.
“We will review the proposals discussed to ensure that improvements can be implemented smoothly,” she said.
