Malaysia’s anti-sexual harassment tribunal resolves 80 complaints in 60 days, with e-TAGS system launched to streamline digital filing.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment (TAGS) has successfully resolved 80 complaints within 60 days from its first hearing, while another 19 are still being processed.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said TAGS, established on March 8, 2024, has received 99 complaints as of June 7, 2026.
“TAGS has now taken a step further with the introduction of the e-TAGS system, which came into effect on Jan 1, this year.
“e-TAGS is an electronic complaint management system that facilitates filing, processing, hearings, and digital record-keeping. It is more organised, faster, easier and paperless,” she said at the TAGS office opening and e-TAGS launch ceremony at Menara Aras Jaya here today.
She said the initiative is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen access to justice for sexual harassment victims and encourage more people to come forward to file complaints without fear, shame, or blame.
Nancy added that sexual harassment is often associated with shame, fear, and sensitivity, leading many victims to remain silent or hide their experiences.
“Sexual harassment covers verbal, non-verbal, visual, gestural, and physical forms. It is no joke or merely a personal matter. It is about rights, safety and community well-being, which must be taken seriously,” she said.
Nancy said the tribunal, established under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) under the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 (Act 840), offers an alternative to civil courts for hearing sexual harassment complaints.
She called the tribunal’s establishment a crucial step toward stronger victim protection and a safer, more dignified society.
“All proceedings are held in private across various locations to protect privacy and ensure legal compliance,” she said.
So far, 30 tribunal members have been appointed to decide cases based on the balance of probabilities under Act 840.
Under Section 20 of Act 840, if a complaint is proven, TAGS may issue an award that includes a formal apology, publication of the apology, compensation up to RM250,000, and/or mandatory attendance at appropriate programmes, she said.
The tribunal’s office moved from Putrajaya to Level 26, Menara Aras Jaya on Nov 3, 2025, with its first hearing held on Nov 10. The office includes a special room for child witnesses to ensure a more comfortable environment.
Meanwhile, Nancy said yesterday’s High Court decision upholding a tribunal award reflects confidence in the tribunal’s independence, fairness and professionalism.
