By criminalising stalking, public perceptions around stalking may change, says women's group

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On Oct 3, Dewan Rakyat passed the anti-stalking laws allowing proposed amendments to be part of the Penal Code to criminalise stalking. 
SHAH ALAM - Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) says the Anti-Stalking Bill unanimously passed in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday will do justice to victims and survivors of stalking.

It said the survivors and vulnerable groups will be able to seek protection if they are being followed or have their house broken into.

"Stalking can affect anyone. While these laws apply to all genders, they are instrumental in curbing violence against women in Malaysian as well as ensuring survivors’ safety through access to protection orders,” it said in an Instagram post.

By criminalising stalking, the public perceptions around stalking may change as the law has the power to influence public perceptions towards gender-based violence, it said.

WAO added the move also signals that such an act is not tolerable and provides options for survivors to seek justice, bystanders to support them, and law enforcement to take action.

It also thanked all partners, funders, government officers, ministers, MPs, survivors and members of the public who have advocated along with them and supported their #MakeStalking ACrime campaign.

On Oct 3, Dewan Rakyat passed the anti-stalking laws allowing proposed amendments to be part of the Penal Code to criminalise stalking.