DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN MALAYSIA: A STUDY ON CAUSES AND THE ROLE OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE DEPARTMENT

Abstract

The whole world is now dealing with the increase in cases of domestic violence. To determine domestic violence, usually each family will be the target of either the perpetrator or the victim. This is an issue that requires special attention from the authorities to identify the causes and the best solution. Thus, this study will discuss issues related to domestic violence in Malaysia and the legal actions based on the provisions as provided by the Domestic Violence Act 1994 in handling such cases. Several factors have been identified for the occurrence of domestic violence and the form of legal action that can protect the victims. This article was written based on qualitative method by looking at official documents and cases that occurred in Malaysia. It can be concluded that domestic violence can happen to family members, spouses, children, and the elderly. In addition, this article also explains the role of the Social Welfare Department in helping victims of domestic violence based on the protections enshrined in the Penal Code, the Domestic Violence Act 1994 and the Child Act 2001.