Sheltering survivors of gender-based violence

Shelters provide a vital lifeline and a safe space for survivors of domestic violence, especially when they have nowhere or no one to turn to.

But it’s more than simply providing a physical location. With a recently launched pilot programme by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, together with the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department, 14 mosques across KL will be used as transit centres for domestic violence survivors. This was announced just days before the capital city was thrust into a third lockdown.

BFM talks to Sumitra Visvanathan, executive director of the Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO), to find out why this move is important, what it takes to run a domestic violence shelter, and whether this third lockdown could once again see a rise in cases of domestic violence.

Produced and presented by: Lim Sue Ann

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.

AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama

1. Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
2. Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
3. Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
4. Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
5. Lawan rasuah dan kronisme

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