Violence involving lovers among issues in proposed amendment to Act

Violence involving lovers, stalking and intimidating victims are among issues to which amendments have been proposed under the Domestic Violence Act 1994 (Act 521).

Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim said the amendments would include broadening the definition of violence to prevent domestic violence and provide protection to the parties concerned.

She said the amendment was expected to be tabled in Parliament early next year.

The ministry, she added, was holding meetings to discuss amendments by the various parties, including NGOs, law experts, academics, social organisations, women's associations as well as with victims over the past several years.

"The meetings are nearing the last stages," Rohani told reporters after chairing a meeting of the National Council of Women and Family Development here Thursday.

The minister noted that domestic violence cases involving those in their 60s and above had also increased.

"It is alarming to me. At 60, they should be more loving and non-violent. I hope the amendment will tackle this problem, as well," she said.

According to Social Welfare Department statistics, a total of 424 cases of domestic violence were reported up till June this year.

Last year, 667 cases of domestic violence were reported. In 2014, there were 707 cases and in 2013, there were 488 cases. -- BERNAMA