BUTTERWORTH: Women and their children fleeing abusive partners can now seek financial assistance through a RM1mil allocation from the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry.
Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (pic) said the allocation is a new initiative launched this year, rather than an annual fund.
“We are confident of continuing the programme next year to help women who may not have the means to take their children somewhere safe.
“We also have transit homes that provide temporary shelter for women who need a safe place to stay,” she told reporters after launching the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW) programme at The Light Hotel in Seberang Jaya here.
Nancy said the ministry is also implementing Matahari, which focuses on women’s psychological resilience; Iris, which promotes legal literacy and awareness of women’s rights; and Skuad Waja, a community-based support network operating in every state.
Women seeking assistance can approach the Women’s Development Department in their respective states to find out what help is available, she said.
“We may not be able to stop a woman from being assaulted in her own home, but we can empower her with confidence and awareness of her legal rights, and let her know that help is available.
“We have programmes such as Matahari and Iris, as well as legal aid and financial assistance provided through government allocations,” she said.
Nancy said these initiatives could help women understand their rights and seek assistance when they decide to leave abusive situations.
She said preventing violence against women requires a whole-of-community and whole-of-nation approach.
The ministry has already introduced various initiatives, including the Talian Kasih helpline at 15999 and counselling services, to support victims.
Nancy said increased awareness of violence against women had led to more victims lodging reports.
As of August this year, a total of 5,278 cases had been reported nationwide.
She said the rise in reported cases could indicate that more victims are aware of the assistance available and feel more confident about coming forward.
“They now know that the government has measures in place to protect them, and this is the impact we are seeing.
“During our other programmes, many participants have shared how they managed to break free from abusive situations, exchanging experiences and supporting one another.
“Some have even formed WhatsApp groups to discuss ways to overcome these challenges.
“This is not just about the economic aspect.
“We want to help victims rebuild their lives and regain their independence, including enabling them to earn their own income to support themselves and their families.
“That is one of the key impacts we hope to achieve, particularly in terms of economic empowerment,” added Nancy.
