#MeToo Movement: What is Sexual Harassment?

#MeToo Movement: What is Sexual Harassment?

With the continuous spread of the #MeToo movement, have you ever wondered about the laws regarding sexual harassment in Malaysia?

What is sexual harassment?

The “Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022” defines sexual harassment as any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, in any form, whether verbal, non-verbal, visual, gestural or physical, directed at a person which is reasonably offensive or humiliating or is a threat to his well-being.

What should you do in the face of sexual harassment?

Document the details of the incident and gather evidence, then report it to the authorities.

What about workplace sexual harassment?

  1. File a complaint with the employer.
  2. File a complaint with the Department of Labor.
  3. Seek assistance from women’s organizations (such as WCC).

What penalties can sexual harassers face?

Under Section 354 of the Penal Code, the maximum penalty for outrage modesty is 10 years of imprisonment, caning, or both.

Under Section 509 of the Penal Code, attempting to insult someone through language or gestures can result in a maximum penalty of 5 years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.

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