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Home is where one is safe and sound, where one is able to thrive spiritually and physically.

Unfortunately, it is not the case for those who suffer from physical and emotional abuse.

Domestic violence should not be taken lightly. With the current Movement Control Order (MCO), it is more worrying because the victims are trapped in the house and will not be able to go out to seek help.

According to Woman’s Aid Organisation (WAO) communications officer Tan Heang Lee, an average of 10.5 complaints a day were received, via calls or WhatsApp, in March.

WAO is a non-governmental organisation with a mission to end violence against women and promote gender equality in Malaysia.

It is the responsibility of the Women and Family Ministry to provide support and protection to these unfortunate victims of domestic violence.

The ministry should have a proper plan to reduce the number of cases and to provide support and protection to these victims of domestic violence during the MCO.

Domestic violence is definitely not a local issue. In France, for example, the rate of reported cases of domestic violence rose during the first week of the country’s lockdown.

The French government provided hotel accommodation for the victims and set up counselling centres to assist the victims.

There are several factors leading to domestic violence, namely economic, stress and work.

If no effective measures are taken, the number of cases will keep increasing as the victim is stuck with the abuser for a long period of time.

In this pandemic situation,many have lost their jobs and are facing financial difficulties.

According to the Chief Statistician Malaysia, Datuk Seri Mohd Uzir Mahidin, the number of unemployed was approximately 525,200 in February compared to January.

Bank Negara Malaysia is also expecting the unemployment rate to hit four per cent this year compared with 2019, which was 3.3 per cent.

This is a nightmare for many employees and is also highly affecting those who are self-employed.

Simply put, financial issues can be a great cause of domestic violence.

Domestic violence impacts victims negatively, physically and mentally.

While bruises and wounds can seen with the naked eye, mental trauma is less obvious though the effects can be devastating. Victims can suffer from severe depression that can lead to self-harm or suicide.

Victims of domestic violence are strongly advised to seek help, whether from the government or from NGOs.

Go to the nearest police station, contact the nearest Welfare Department office or call Talian Kasih.

NGOs like WAO and Women’s Centre for Change have the same goal, which is to help and protect victims of domestic violence, child abuse, rape and sexual harassment.

Luthfi Yusri and Ajda Nuha

Persatuan Belia HARMONI Malaysia