Anti-Sexual Harassment tribunal to be expanded to address underage rape cases

KUALA KUBU BAHARU, May 9: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has organised advocacy programmes targeting schools nationwide to address underage rape cases.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, said the Anti-Sexual Harassment tribunal in Putrajaya would expand nationwide once the construction of offices in each state is fully completed.

"Additionally, the ministry has launched community-based organisations to encourage local stakeholders in villages and districts, including non-governmental organisations, to help address the issue.

"The community response team has also been launched to assist the authorities. People, especially those closest to the victims, can use this platform to resolve the issue."
She advised the public to report such cases to the Talian Kasih helpline at 15999, which could provide assistance, including counselling.

Police have warned that easy access to social media and pornography could lead to social problems among children.

Federal police Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd said there was even a case of 9-year-olds raping a girl, also aged 9.

He said due to their age, there were no criminal liabilities, and no charge was made. No proof was also presented despite consultations with the deputy public prosecutor.

In April, it was reported that the rise in rape cases involving underage girls in the past three years was believed to be linked to the increased use of social media and WhatsApp by minors.

Bukit Aman Sexual, Women and Child Investigations Division (D11) principal assistant director Assistant Commissioner Siti Kamsiah Hassan said investigations into underage rape indicate that many victims met the perpetrators through social media – NST Online