KUALA LUMPUR, 3 Dec 2008: Malaysia is currently reviewing its Domestic Violence Act 1994 with the aim of expanding the scope of domestic violence definition and extending the duration of interim protection.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen told a gender equality conference in Geneva, Switzerland today that amendments to the Act would be made so that the definition of domestic violence would be expanded.
Apart from physical forms, it will include emotional, mental and psychological forms and the usage of drugs and intoxicating substances without the consent of victims.
According to a press statement released by the ministry here today, Ng said the amendments would also seek to extend the duration of interim protection orders from the time investigations were completed until the time the case was brought to court.
A new provision that would allow victims the right to compensation would also be added, she said.
Ng is in Geneva attending the four-day Conference for Chairpersons and Members of Parliamentary Bodies Dealing with Gender Equality. The conference ends on 5 Dec.
The conference aims to seek concrete ways in which parliaments can respond effectively to curb violence against women (VAW). — Bernama
