SANDAKAN: Domestic violence remains one of the most alarming social issues in the country.
Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad said unfortunately, in some cases, domestic violence is still viewed as a personal matter that should be resolved within the household without external intervention.
“This perception leads many victims, especially women, to continue suffering in silence,” she said.
According to statistics from the Royal Malaysian Police, a total of 3,768 cases of domestic violence involving victims aged between 36 and 45 years were recorded nationwide from January to August this year, with Sabah accounting for 385 cases.
She said these numbers are not just statistics but a real depiction of the suffering endured by wives, mothers and children due to domestic violence.
“This issue requires serious attention and integrated efforts from all parties to ensure it is addressed in a holistic and effective manner, not just through law enforcement,” she added.
She said this during the launch of the Jelajah Kasih (Love Tour) Local Support Centre (PSSS) titled “Sa Dengar Sa Tulung Bah” (I hear I help) at Taman Batu Sapi PPR Hall, here.
Also present were Sandakan District Officer Zantapha Zaina Abidin, National Welfare Foundation (YKN) CEO Nordina Harun and event organiser representative Hazulizah Md Dani.
In her speech, Noraini highlighted that the Ministry is always committed to strengthening policies, laws and mechanisms to deliver information and support to the community, particularly victims of domestic violence.
Additionally, they are also reinforcing the social support ecosystem through various programmes and cross-agency collaborations.
These include the EVAW (End Violence Against Women) Programme by the Department of Women’s Development (JPW), counselling services and case management by the Department of Social Welfare, awareness campaigns and enforcement of laws under the Domestic Violence Act, as well as strategic partnerships with YKN through initiatives like PSSS and the 24-hour Talian Kasih 15999 helpline.
The helpline is a critical resource for women in need of immediate assistance or for reporting cases of violence, abuse, or neglect.
Meanwhile, Nordina, when speaking to the media, said PSSS, an initiative under YKN, was created as a one-stop centre to assist individuals and families facing various social, psychological and emotional issues.
PSSS plays a role in providing counselling services, early interventions, psychosocial assistance, case monitoring and referrals to relevant agencies.
“It was established to ensure that the community is not left to face life’s pressures, family problems, or trauma caused by violence and abuse alone,” she added.
Women and children who are victims of domestic violence, abuse survivors, individuals facing depression, emotional stress, or those who have lost their livelihood often benefit from PSSS services.
Since its establishment, PSSS has become a reference point for thousands of Malaysians seeking emotional support and professional intervention.
PSSS not only provides advice but also serves as a safe space for the community to be heard, guided and assisted by registered YKN professional counsellors.
