Domestic violence offender registry to track repeat abusers under consideration, says Nancy Shukri

KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 — Malaysia is considering establishing a Domestic Violence Offender Registry to monitor repeat offenders, as authorities examine ways to strengthen prevention, enforcement and protection for victims.

Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the proposal was discussed during a Domestic Violence Case Coordination Meeting on April 29, attended by representatives from various ministries and relevant agencies.

“In this regard, follow-up action is being undertaken jointly by the ministry, the police and the judiciary to further examine this proposal and develop an appropriate mechanism for recording and monitoring repeat domestic violence offenders through criminal records or relevant offence registries,” she said in a written parliamentary reply dated July 6.

Nancy said the proposed registry would help strengthen prevention efforts, improve enforcement and enhance protections for victims.

“At the same time, due consideration must be given to the legal, ethical and human rights implications of such a registry,” she said.

She was responding to Ampang MP Rodziah Ismail, who had asked about the status of the proposed registry.

Nancy said the Domestic Violence Committee would continue coordinating the government’s response by bringing together ministries, departments and agencies to oversee policies, programmes and initiatives aimed at tackling domestic violence.

She added that the ministry would continue reviewing and strengthening its standard operating procedures (SOPs) and service delivery to ensure reporting channels and protection systems for domestic violence victims remain responsive, effective and suited to evolving needs.