The latest figures from the Statistics Department show the number of sexual crimes involving victims aged 18 and below increased marginally by 0.9% in 2021 to 1,481 cases, compared with 1,468 in 2020.National Council of Women’s Organisation honorary assistant secretary Prof Madya Dr Sharifah Syahirah Syed Sheikh told“Victims must be aware of what constitutes sexual harassment and stalking so that they can avoid such situations or seek help to resolve it immediately.
She said NCWO prioritises promoting awareness of sexual crimes because the first reaction from most people is to blame the victim rather than the perpetrator.Heriot-Watt University Asst Prof of Law and All Women’s Action Society deputy president Dr Ng May Yee said it is considered rape when one party withdraws consent during sexual intercourse.
She said Awam has an advocacy programme to create public awareness that such crimes are not something to be ashamed of or keep silent about. “Our volunteers will guide them on what to do and where to go if they are experiencing sexual crimes.