top of page
A girl feeling sad

Domestic Violence In Malaysia

Domestic violence is not always visible. It does not always leave bruises, but its impact can be deeply damaging, emotionally, psychologically, financially, and physically.

​

At Piya Law Chambers, we believe that safety, dignity, and autonomy are non-negotiable. This page is created to help you understand what domestic violence is, how the law in Malaysia protects victims, and where you can seek immediate help and support.

​

If you are reading this and wondering whether what you are experiencing is “serious enough", please know this: abuse does not need to escalate to physical harm to be recognised or protected under the law.

Light and Shadow Patterns
Emergency Help & Support

If you need immediate assistance, these services are available 24/7:

​

  • Police Emergency: 999

  • Talian Kasih Hotline: 15999

  • Talian Kasih WhatsApp: 019-261 5999

  • Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO)

    • Hotline: 03-3000 8858

    • WhatsApp (TINA): 018-988 8058

​

These organisations provide shelter, counselling, legal referrals, and emotional support.

Forms of Domestic Abuse Recognised by Malaysian Law

In Malaysia, domestic violence is governed by the Domestic Violence Act 1994, which recognises that abuse is not limited to physical harm. The Courts now recognise multiple forms of abuse, acknowledging that domestic violence is fundamentally about power, control, and fear, not isolated incidents.

Physical Abuse

When a spouse intentionally causes or threatens physical injury as a means of control or intimidation. Examples include:

  • Hitting, slapping, pushing, or choking

  • Threatening physical harm

  • Acts that place a spouse in fear of physical injury

The Court does not require victims to wait until serious injury occurs before granting protection.

Verbal Abuse

Repeated use of words to frighten, demean, or control a spouse.

 

Examples include:

  • Constant insults or derogatory language

  • Shouting or screaming (at home or workplace)

  • Veiled threats, swearing, or humiliation

  • Persistent blaming or criticism

Emotional Abuse

Behaviour that causes a spouse to live in constant fear, anxiety, or confusion — often described as “walking on eggshells”.

Examples include:

  • Isolation from family and friends

  • Gaslighting and manipulation

  • Silent treatment used as punishment

  • Accusations of infidelity

  • Insisting on knowing whereabouts at all times

Sexual Abuse

Any sexual act forced upon a spouse without consent, including situations where consent cannot be given due to intoxication or coercion.

 

Examples include:

  • Forced sexual intercourse

  • Forced sexual acts with third parties

  • Non-consensual touching

Financial Abuse

Control over a spouse’s ability to earn, access, or manage money — often trapping victims in abusive relationships.

Examples include:

  • Preventing a spouse from working

  • Confiscating salary or income

  • Restricting access to bank accounts

  • Using credit cards or funds without consent

  • Threatening financial cut-off

  • Refusing to pay child maintenance

Destruction of Property

Damage to property intended to intimidate, frighten, or assert dominance.

​

Examples include:

  • Punching holes in walls

  • Smashing phones or personal items

  • Damaging vehicles or household property

Abuse in Presence of Children

The Court recognises that violence witnessed by children is itself a form of domestic violence. Examples include:

  • Children witnessing physical violence

  • Children exposed to constant screaming, threats, or intimidation

Such exposure is harmful to a child’s emotional and psychological development and is taken seriously by the Court.

Legal Protection Available in Malaysia

Victims of domestic violence can apply for protective orders under the law:

Emergency Protection Order (EPO)

  • Issued by JKM

  • Valid for 7 days

  • Can be obtained without a police report

  • Available via Talian Kasih (15999) or JKM offices

Interim Protection Order (IPO)

  • Issued by the Magistrates’ Court

  • Protects victims during police investigation

  • Applied for through the police

Protection Order (PO)

  • Issued once the case is charged in Court

  • Valid for up to one year (renewable)

  • Breach is a criminal offence

How Domestic Violence Impacts Divorce & Custody

Domestic violence has serious implications in family law matters:

  • Divorce: Violence is a recognised ground for divorce

  • Custody: The Court prioritises the safety and welfare of children

  • Access: May be restricted, supervised, or denied

  • Maintenance: Victims can seek spousal and child maintenance

At Piya Law Chambers, we approach these cases with trauma-informed advocacy, ensuring your safety is never compromised for legal strategy.

Safety Planning:
What You Can Do Now

If you are at risk:

  • Identify a safe place you can go quickly

  • Keep copies of important documents

  • Prepare an emergency bag

  • Establish code words with trusted people

  • Be mindful of digital safety (location tracking, shared devices)

​

If you are in immediate danger, call 999 immediately

FAQ

  • Yes. Domestic violence is not limited to physical abuse.

    Emotional abuse, verbal threats, sexual coercion, financial control, intimidation, and fear-based behaviour are all recognised by Malaysian courts.

    If you feel constantly afraid, controlled, or unsafe in your relationship, your experience matters, even without physical violence.

  • Yes. Repeated shouting, insults, threats, humiliation, and intimidation may amount to verbal and emotional abuse, which are recognised forms of domestic violence under the law. The Court looks at patterns of behaviour, not just isolated incidents.

  • Yes. You do not need to leave the marital home to seek protection.

    Protection orders can:

    • Prohibit violence or harassment

    • Restrict contact

    • Regulate behaviour within the home

    Your safety does not depend on moving out first.

  • Not always.

    You can obtain an Emergency Protection Order (EPO) through JKM (the welfare department) without making a police report.
    However, for longer-term protection (IPO or PO), a police report is usually required.

    If you are unsure, NGOs and legal professionals can guide you step-by-step.

  • Violating an EPO, IPO, or PO is a criminal offence.

    The perpetrator may face:

    • Arrest (even without a warrant)

    • Fines

    • Imprisonment

    If a protection order is breached, you should immediately make a police report.

  • No.
    Applying for protection does not force you to file for divorce.

    Many survivors seek protection simply to:

    • Create safety

    • Stop abuse

    • Gain space and clarity

    Divorce is your decision, and it can be considered later when you are ready.

  • Yes.
    Domestic violence often happens behind closed doors.

    The Court may consider:

    • Your testimony

    • WhatsApp messages or voice notes

    • Medical reports

    • Patterns of behaviour

    • Police reports or prior complaints

    Lack of witnesses does not invalidate your experience.

  • Yes — significantly.

    The Court prioritises the best interests and safety of the child.
    Violence (especially in front of children) may affect:

    • Custody decisions

    • Access arrangements

    • Whether access is supervised or restricted

    Children witnessing abuse is taken very seriously.

  • Yes.
    Financial control and deprivation are recognised forms of financial abuse.

    This includes:

    • Preventing you from working

    • Taking your salary

    • Restricting access to money

    • Refusing child maintenance

    Financial dependence should never trap you in an abusive relationship.

  • Your fear is valid. Abuse often escalates when control is challenged.

    Before taking action:

    • Speak confidentially to a lawyer or NGO

    • Create a safety plan

    • Understand your options

    • Seek professional guidance

  • Yes.
    Domestic violence laws apply regardless of gender.

    Men can experience emotional, verbal, physical, sexual, and financial abuse and are equally entitled to protection under the law.

  • Yes.
    You do not need to be “ready” to leave to seek help.

    Support is available even if you are:

    • Still deciding

    • Still living together

    • Still emotionally conflicted

    Getting information and support is a first step, not a final decision.

  • Your safety and confidentiality matter.

    Legal consultations are private and confidential.
    NGOs and shelters also prioritise discretion and safety, especially for high-risk cases.

bottom of page