IPOH: Domestic violence is not exclusive to women, men also suffer physical, emotional, and financial abuse, says Perak executive councillor Datuk Salbiah Mohamed.
Speaking at the state-level "Orange Run 2026" for the "End Violence Against Women" campaign on Saturday (Oct 31), Salbiah noted that while male victims remain relatively few compared to women, their plight must not be ignored.
Perak recorded 405 domestic violence cases involving both men and women between January and June this year. Salbiah, who chairs the state Women, Family, Social Welfare, Cooperatives, and Entrepreneur Development Committee, attributed the slight rise to growing public awareness and victims' greater willingness to lodge police reports.
However, she noted that many victims, particularly married women in rural areas, still hesitate to come forward due to social stigma, fear of retaliation, or economic dependence.
“Some still view violence as a family disgrace to be hidden,” she said. “Others fear that speaking up could jeopardise their family’s livelihood or safety.”
Salbiah said that abuse extends beyond physical and sexual assault. She highlighted the severe impact of emotional abuse, which erodes a victim's confidence, and financial abuse, such as husbands withholding maintenance support.
She urged women to learn their rights and speak out, reminding the public that help is available through the Talian Kasih hotline at 15999.
Salbiah also called on the community to step up and report suspected abuse in their neighbourhoods rather than turning a blind eye.
“This is not about prying into other people’s affairs, but about protecting individuals and keeping our community safe,” she said.
