KUCHING, March 29: Sarawak Women for Women Society (SWWS) has urged the public to be vigilant of domestic violence in their neighbourhood during the movement control order (MCO) and immediately report such incidents.
SWWS spokesperson Ann Teo expressed concern that internal conflicts in certain families might lead to abuse of women and children during this time.
She added that women groups are well aware that domestic violence can occur and increase when tensions are high when people are living on top of each other.
“SWWS is concerned that during this time of worry and confinement to the home, some of these abusers will be on a shorter fuse and more likely to offend.
“We therefore, ask everyone to try and control their anger at this time and look out for each other,” she said in a statement.
She added: “For instance, if you hear sounds of violence in your neighbour’s house, make an anonymous call to the police. If you know of someone who is at risk, then check up on them by sending a text or a phone call
“Remember, we can keep social contact while social distancing thanks to phones.”
She said although SWWS’s phone number is unreachable during the MCO period, the public people can email them to discuss their situation at sarswws@gmail.com.
Te added that the public can also call the Woman’s Aid Organisation (WAO) in Kuala Lumpur, which have the resources to keep their line open 24 hours for text messages or WhatsApp at 018-9888058.
Teo said the hotline is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday-Saturday.
She added that WAO has helpful information on their website at wao.org.my.
“Those who fear for their safety can also approach the one stop crisis centre in all major government hospitals,” she continued.
On another note, she added children who are at risk from sexual abuse were encouraged to contact the government helpline (Talian Kasih) at 15999 or send a message through WhatsApp at 019-2615999. — DayakDaily
