KUALA LUMPUR - Domestic violence must never be brushed off as a private family matter, as police are duty-bound to investigate every report thoroughly, said Bukit Aman’s Sexual, Women and Child Investigation Division (D11) principal assistant director Senior Assistant Commissioner Siti Kamsiah Hassan.
She emphasised that the police have the authority to arrest suspects to facilitate investigations and prevent further harm to victims.
She said acts such as assault, causing injury, using weapons, issuing threats or damaging property are offences under the Penal Code and fall under the Domestic Violence Act.
“If there are elements of crime, we will definitely investigate. This is not a small matter within the home, it is a crime,” she told Sinar.
She said not all cases required immediate arrest but investigations will still proceed according to procedures to avoid repeated incidents, especially in long-term marital conflicts.
Siti Kamsiah also stressed that police personnel were not allowed to dismiss domestic violence reports.
“If there are officers who tell victims to ‘go home and settle it yourselves’, the victim can report this to police's leadership because it is wrong and goes against policy,” she said.
She said the idea that marital disputes were “normal” keeps victims silent, with many bystanders still choose to look away.
She stressed that anyone can lodge a report if they believe a crime has occurred, and the police will not take action against those who report in good faith.
Outlining D11’s approach, Siti Kamsiah highlighted that the department practises gender neutrality to ensure equal legal protection for all victims.
“We view victims as traumatised individuals, not based on gender,” she said.
Victims, she said, were given psychological support before questioning as many were emotionally shaken after an assault or domestic dispute.
She added that assigning investigative officers who make victims feel safe was crucial to ensure the investigation process doesn’t add to their trauma and distress.
Siti Kamsiah said community involvement was crucial in exposing hidden cases of abuse.
“Community leaders, neighbourhood committees and local leaders must act as the eyes and ears to detect early signs of abuse, especially for victims who feel ashamed or afraid to come forward,” she added.