Financial abuse via forged documents leaves women in debt, distress

SHAH ALAM - Financial abuse involving forged documents by former spouses can leave women trapped in debt and emotional distress, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of existing laws.

Persatuan Wanita Inspirasi Negara Malaysia president Norhimah Aziz said such acts of financial abuse must be met with strict punishment to protect women from continuing to become victims.

“If a woman is abandoned without financial support, I believe she can still find ways to earn a living. But if she is left burdened with heavy debts, that is extremely difficult.

“That is why appropriate action must be taken under existing laws to protect victims while also serving as a warning to others, preventing future cases,” she said.

Meanwhile, lawyer Wan Azliana Wan Adnan said women should immediately lodge a police report if they suspect their personal documents have been forged by any party, including a former husband, to enable legal action to be taken.

She said women must also be more cautious when asked to sign documents by their partners to avoid becoming victims of fraud.

She added that such cases should not be taken lightly as they involve financial security as well as the emotional wellbeing of victims.

“The use of an individual’s identity without consent for financial purposes is a serious offence. Victims have the right to lodge a police report and bring the matter to court to seek justice,” she said.