Dealing with harassment

Mar 07, 2025

bY Priyanka Bernadine
The Saint Anne Youths (STAY), from the Basilica of St Anne, organised a talk on Dealing with Harassment recently. The primary objective of this event was to enlighten young individuals about the latest legislation related to harassment and to equip them with the necessary knowledge regarding their rights and protections against all forms of harassment.

Deacon Dave Kameron, the Spiritual Advisor of STAY, recognising the importance of raising awareness and addressing concerns regarding harassment, supported the youths in organising the talk. Deacon Dave emphasised that this initiative marks the beginning of a series of discussions aimed at tackling issues that matter most in the daily lives of young people. STAY will invite speakers who can share their expertise and guide the youths effectively on a variety of topics.

Lawyer Christopher Kushi, who presented the talk, explained that with the coming into force of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 (ASHA 2022), the legal definition of what constitutes sexual harassment is defined as such; “sexual harassment” means any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, in any form, whether verbal, non-verbal, visual, gestural or physical, directed at a person which is reasonably offensive or humiliating or is a threat to his well-being”. The ASHA 2022 provides redress for persons who have been sexually harassed and establishes the Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment under the Ministry of Woman, Family and Community Development.

The criminalisation of ‘Stalking’ whether physical or online, is another step in protecting individuals from such harmful behaviour. Under Section 507A of the Penal Code, stalking is defined as “whoever repeatedly by any act of harassment, intending to cause, or knowing or ought to know that the act is likely to cause distress, fear or alarm to any person of the person’s safety”. This includes following or tracking, communicating or attempting to communicate, loitering at the place of residence or business, giving or sending anything. Here, repeatedly shall refer to at least two occasions to constitute stalking.

Also addressed were the various forms of cyber-bullying that occur via internet messaging platforms. Types of cyberbullying include trolling, doxing, cyber-stalking, flaming, exclusion and impersonation. Notably, Malaysia faces an alarming rate of 10 cyber-bullying cases daily as the government prepares to introduce the Online Safety Bill.

Highlighted also were the various forms of workplace harassment, which include personal harassment, physical harassment, verbal harassment, psychological harassment, power harassment, and online harassment.

Samantha San, STAY youth leader, now feels more prepared to deal with harassment cases as she is aware of the elements of harassment. According to Samantha, “In school, we don’t really learn about harassment in detail, and some of us are afraid to speak up about this and ask questions.” As one of the leaders, she now has the courage to look out for the youths. Another youth attendee also spoke about a friend who was facing a form of harassment and now, this attendee understands better and is ready to advice. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the legal frameworks to safeguard them in both physical and digital spaces. They now understand how to recognise, respond and report harassment, fostering a safer working environment.

Youths who feel they are victims of harassment can seek advice and assistance by reaching out to the Professional Standards Office (PSO), Diocese of Penang. The PSO provides support and guidance to those in need, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.