By Rodziah Ismail
(PRESS STATEMENT)
Men who are responsible and sensitive to women’s rights awarded by God and the law has much helped women receive redress and justice when they are vilified, discriminated against, abused and terrorised mentally, physically, emotionally and sexually.
The history of human civilization has proven this. In the case where a video showed a woman being beaten by her husband which has become an issue currently was published onto social media sites by the victim’s male family members is a significant example of the responsibility felt by men who are sensitive and concerned to ensure that women under their care receive justice and are not at all treated with impunity by men who have lost all guidance and intentionally want to hurt and harm women’s lives, even though men are claimed to be entrusted to do the opposite.
The video which went viral published reaction from the authorities as required. Teachings in life which are shaped by the belief that humans are created by Allah the Almighty clarifies that whatever the fault of the woman wife, he (husband) is not entitled to terrorise by any means; much less if no mistake was made.
What is the solution to such social ills in a developing society and may become tyranny? It is not a question easily answered, but not impossible to be answered and implemented as best possible. Determination to do it rests largely on the power capable of moving all machinery and trustworthy personnel to implement it.
The Federal Government is urged to stop all discrimination on the maximum mobilisation of members of law enforcement in addressing all forms of violence against people, especially women in the state of Selangor. Pending the decision of the Federal Government, the Selangor State Government has planned to implement a community policy and installing surveillance devices (CCTV) as a measure to safeguard the safety of the people in relevant areas.
In addition is the intensification of the advocacy (RM500 thousand has been allocated for this purpose) of the One-Stop Crisis Centre (OSCC) and enhancing its services for victims of violence as well as adding shelters in collaboration with the LPHS. Parallel efforts of gender advocacy (also involving the understanding of the sensitivity of masculinity and manhood), protection and prosecution are also the focus of eliminating all forms of violence against women. The Selangor Government is working to start the Men Anti-Violence Against Women movement. The issue of violence against women should not be sensationalised to receive justice and reaction from enforcement personnel. It is the basis of enforcement action.
The Selangor State Government wants to do the maximum effort of prevention, protection and prosecution, to address the crime of violence against women. It requires close cooperation with the Federal Government in an organised and systematic manner (refer to my Press Statement dated 26 July 2012). Carelessness and failure will put the people, especially women, in stressful and unsafe situations.
* Rodziah is the Batu Tiga Assemblywoman cum Deputy Chief of the PKR Central Woman’s Wing and the Women Chief of the Selangor PKR
