Understanding the laws in Malaysia

Not all forms of online gender-based violence (OGBV) fall under criminal behaviour. At the same time, there is no specific legislation addressing online gender-based violence. The normalisation of gender inequalities, stereotyping of gender roles and responsibilities, sexual harassment and moral policing lend to the fact that the same challenges in addressing gender-based violence persist in addressing online gender-based violence. This includes a culture of impunity and victim-blaming, which are further exacerbated by a lack of gender-sensitisation of the relevant authorities as well as the general public.

Although the laws are far from satisfactory, but our research has shown that women had used threats of police complaints to stop the attacks or to fight back against their harassers or perpetrators.

Regardless of your decision, collecting and presenting evidence and knowing your legal rights are important, so that you can make an informed decision for yourself. Below is some information on the relevant legislations in Malaysia and guides on how to make a police report.

pageList of relevant legislation in MalaysiapageMaking a police report