Deputy minister Teo Nie Ching says victims of online sexual harassment can file cases at the Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal for resolution within 60 days.
KUALA LUMPUR: Victims of online sexual harassment can seek justice through the Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching (pic) said the tribunal, established in March 2024, provides an accessible avenue for redress. She explained that victims subjected to nasty or abusive comments online have the right to file a suit for review.
“If this harassment happens online, according to the law, we actually can go to the Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal and the judge will decide whether this constitutes sexual harassment,” Teo said. She added that outcomes can include mandated apologies or monetary awards for victims.
The tribunal is designed for accessibility, allowing victims to represent themselves without a lawyer. All cases brought before it must be resolved within 60 days.
Teo acknowledged a significant challenge in pursuing online harassment cases, particularly in identifying anonymous perpetrators. She noted that online abusers frequently hide behind fake profiles, making it difficult for victims to seek redress.
“When someone says something very sexist to us online, how does a victim even begin legal proceedings when the abuser has no face, no name and no accountability?” she questioned.
Teo also highlighted the escalating threat of artificial intelligence-driven digital violence like deepfake pornography. She stressed that technology platforms must be held accountable for tools that facilitate such acts.
“We must demand gender-inclusive AI governance, with women at every decision-making table,” Teo said. She argued companies cannot hide behind the excuse of ‘the algorithm did it’ and avoid all responsibility.
Teo was speaking at the launch of the Selangor DAP Women’s Free Legal Advice Programme in conjunction with International Women’s Day. She said the programme aims to provide professional and accessible initial legal consultation.
For a start, the service has brought together a panel of 10 lawyers. It is open to women residing in Selangor who are not already represented by legal counsel.
The Sun Malaysia
