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KUALA LUMPUR – The Dewan Rakyat has finally passed the Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill 2021 today after more than a decade worth of work into the legal document which began its journey in 2011.
The bill, containing four parts, four chapters and 27 clauses, was passed via a voice vote and is expected to provide a concrete means of handling sexual harassment in Malaysia.
Previously, there were no laws focusing on the problem.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun, in her winding-up speech on the bill, said that the draft legislation is an important manifestation of the government’s commitment towards eliminating gender-based discrimination.
An evaluation task force comprising individuals from non-governmental organisations (NGO), academics and relevant agencies will be established to monitor the new legislation’s effectiveness, as well as to produce a report on its findings.
Rina gave her assurance that members of the tribunal will be appointed from individuals with credibility, experience, and expertise in handling sexual harassment cases, including police officers, counsellors, medical personnel, doctors, NGOs and academicians. – The Vibes, July 20, 2022
