Abstract
Sexual harassment is a serious issue that is happening at a frequent rate in Malaysia. Workplaces, educational institutions, private and public places are all exposed to sexual harassment. Incidents continue to happen despite the fact that the community has zero tolerance towards the issue. Victims of sexual harassment comprises both men and women. Nevertheless, datas prove that women largely face sexual harassment in comparison to men. The situation of sexual harassment in different places in Malaysia is analysed based on a general purview. At the moment, sexual harassment is primarily subsumed into labour legislations and Penal Code provisions. Legislations in force are not constructive in the sexual harassment aspect as there are no definite provisions. On top of that, the application of law is rarely seen in other spheres of life apart from workplaces. The current legislation is scrutinised to indicate its loopholes. The absence of a specific legislation to penalise sexual harassment is a growing concern within the nation. To take a step towards the right direction in handling sexual harassment, the Anti Sexual Harassment Bill was introduced. The operation and significance of the bill along with its defence on human rights is looked over as well. Recommendations are provided to overcome sexual harassment cases that are at an alarming rate. Necessary actions to be taken preceding the establishment of the bill into a law and following the enforcement of it together with the responsibilities of organisations and the necessity for awareness of sexual harassment are touched on.
Ramanathan Alias Ashwin S/O Muthupalaniappan, Universiti Utara Malaysia
ashwinramanathan26@gmail.com
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