VIOLENCE against women now also encompasses economic abuse and cyberbullying, in addition to physical, sexual, mental, and emotional abuse, said the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
According to her, statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO) indicate that one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in her life.
“Violence can also manifest as economic abuse—for instance, when a woman is denied money by her partner, forcing her to work, or when she lacks the funds to purchase her own clothing. These are also forms of economic abuse,” she stated.
She made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the launch of the ‘Eliminate Violence Against Women’ (EVAW) 2026 programme, held in conjunction with the Penang State-level commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
Nancy emphasised that the issue of domestic violence requires serious attention and must be addressed through the involvement of all members of society.
According to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), 5,278 cases of domestic violence were recorded nationwide, with 228 cases reported in Penang between January and August of this year.
In an effort to help women access early support, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) has introduced several initiatives—including the Well-being Advocacy Programme, the 'Road to EVAW' programme, and PrismaNita—designed to assist women in building independent lives and strengthening their self-confidence. – October 20, 2026