COMMENT | Sexual harassment is a pervasive and deeply entrenched issue that transcends geographical, cultural, and professional boundaries, manifesting across diverse industries and social strata.

In Malaysia, the gravity of this issue has been starkly underscored by recent high-profile cases, such as the allegations involving a professor at the prestigious Universiti Malaya.

These incidents have cast a glaring spotlight on the alarming prevalence of sexual misconduct and its profound emotional and psychological toll on victims, often leaving them grappling with trauma, shame, and isolation.

Additionally, they highlight significant gaps in Malaysia’s legal frameworks, enforcement mechanisms, and public awareness efforts, which often fail to provide victims with adequate support or a pathway to justice.

The lack of robust preventative measures and institutional accountability has perpetuated a culture of silence, where victims are hesitant to come forward, fearing stigma or retaliation.