IMPROVEMENTS to close-circuit TV (CCTV) infrastructure in public facilities and anti-sexual harassment courses are among plans contained in the Anti-Sexual Harassment Advocacy (Asha) programme guidelines, said Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The guidelines include advocacy programmes for sexual harassment prevention to create awareness about the behaviour, he said when officiating the Asha roadshow in Putrajaya today.

“It includes suggestions and proper steps … to improve prevention, including at workplaces, on public transport, at education facilities and at childcare centres,” he said.

The guidelines, developed by the Women, Family and Community Ministry and which have been in effect since March 28, can be found here.

Zahid, who is rural and regional development minister, said the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 is the government’s declaration that sexual harassment offences breach human rights.

The act was passed by the Dewan Rakyat on July 20, 2022, and the Dewan Negara on August 11, 2022. It has taken effect in stages since March 28.

Women, Family and Community Development Minister Nancy Shukri said she hopes the programme will focus on ensuring a safe environment for both women and men.

Her ministry, through the Women’s Development Department, will activate the advocacy programme in public premises and workplaces throughout 2023 across the country, she said.

Zahid suggested the Communications and Digital Ministry take follow-up action after messaging app Telegram refused to cooperate with the government to find a solution to cybersecurity issues plaguing the platform.

He said although Telegram is not as popular as other apps in Malaysia, negative content can impact Malaysians nonetheless.

Earlier, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly said Telegram representatives refused to meet and cooperate with authorities despite several invitations this year.

Fahmi said Telegram representatives were called up as the ministry received many complaints about misuse of the platform, including for online scams. – Bernama, May 29, 2023.