FACULTY OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND

PROFESSIONAL STUDIES (FBMP)

DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & LAW

BACHELOR IN LAW & COMMERCE

LEGAL RESEARCH (WRS 20104)

COVID-19: SPIKES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CASES IN

MALAYSIA

PREPARED BY: KHAIRUN NISA’A BINTI AZMAN

ID NO.: 012020021074

PREPARED FOR: NUR AMALINA BINTI ABDUL GHANI

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TABLE OF CONTENT

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION OF THE RESEARCH .........................................................1

1.0 ABSTRACT ...........................................................................................................................2
1.1 INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………………..5
1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY……………………………………………………...6
1.3 PROBLEM STATEMENTS……………………………………………………………..7
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS………………………………………………………………8
1.5 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES ...............................................................................................8
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW ....................................................................................9
2.1 COVID-19 ............................................................................................................................11
2.2 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE……………………………………………………………….12
2.3 CORRELATION OF COVID-19 TO THE SPIKE……………………………………..14
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY……………………………………………..16
3.1 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY…………………………………………………………16
3.2 METHODS IN COLLECTING DATA………………………………………………..18
3.2.1 METHOD OF SAMPLING …………………………………………………………18
3.2.2 WHY DO I CHOOSE PROBABILITY SAMPLING……………………………….19
3.2.3 WHAT KIND OF DATA DO WE COLLECT……………………………………...20
3.2.4 LIST OF QUESTION………………………………………………………………..20
3.2.5 WHO IS THE TARGET AUDIENCE ……………………………………………...24
3.2.6 HOW WILL WE COLLECT DATA………………………………………………...24
3.2.7 HOW WILL WE ANALYSE DATA………………………………………………..25
CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS……………………………………………………………..26
CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION………………………………………………………………...31
5.1 CONCLUSION OF THE STUDY…………………………………………………….32
5.2 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY………………………………………………………33

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT……………………………………………………………………….35
REFERANCE……………………………………………………………………………………37
APPENDIX ………………………………………………………………………………..……40

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CHAPTER 1:
INTRODUCTION OF THE
RESEARCH

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION OF THE RESEARCH

1.0 ABSTRACT

The main purpose of this study is to scrutinize the main factors that contribute to the surge of
domestic violence cases that have been contributed by the pandemic of COVID-19 in Malaysia
and measures that can be taken by the obligated authorities especially the victim to curve the
number. The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has brought numerous impacts to the well-
being of the family institution in Malaysia. According to the Domestic Violence Act 1994,
domestic abuse can be defined as abusive action toward spouse, former spouse, child and any
other household members physically, sexually, psychologically, emotionally, verbally, and
financially. Preliminary observations have been conducted by getting through standardized
instruments and scales. The study has also implemented several method types of research of
distinctive online survey, literature studies, and analysis conducts from over 80 authorized
articles. Some notable ramifications of the pandemic are high-level psychological distress, spikes
of financial issues, inadequate personal values and morality including inadequate socioeconomic
support by the government and non-governmental bodies. Domestic violence should be
considered as an emergent public health and it deserves to more exposure and awareness
considering the upcoming risks from this crime that impacts not only the victim alone but also
the child and other household members.

Keywords: Domestic abuse, COVID-19, surge, impact

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1.1 INTRODUCTION

Titled by ‘COVID-19: Spikes of Domestic Violence Cases in Malaysia’, this research is intended
to exquisitely study the main factors that contributed to spikes of domestic violence cases during
the pandemic of COVID-19 in Malaysia and measure that can be implemented by obligated
bodies in Malaysia which is the governmental body e.g. the Ministry of Women, Family and
Community Development (MWCFD), NGOs e.g. the Women’s Aid Organization (WAO) and
the Women’s Centre for Change (WCC) including family and relatives of the victim herself.

‘COVID-19’ can be recognized as a fatal respiratory disease that was first identified in the
Chinese authorities in Wuhan on 7th January 2020. Since then, the COVID-19 has rapidly and
severely affected the global public health that concerns WHO highest level of alarm and PHEIC.
The Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 has generally explained infectious
disease that is specified in the First Schedule that spreads through physical contact of surfaces of
living and non-living things or through exposure of being in contaminated area. It can only be
prevented by vaccination or antigen injection to stimulate the immune system of the person and
reduce risk of infection.

In the Domestic Violence Act 1994, domestic violence constituted as any commission, mischief
or any destruction by a person towards his spouse or his former spouse, a child, and any disabled
adult family member who he is in the knowledge that his action will intimidate or distress the
victim that can also be recognized as a tort. To be specific, section 2(b) indicated that if a person
is (a) willfully and knowing or attempted to put the victim in a physical injury (b) known or
ought that his actions will result in a physical injury (c) threatening or engaging her in any act,
sexually or not where she has the right to abstain (d) confining or detaining against the victim’s
will (e) destructing and causing mischief to property and aware that it will cause distress to the
victim. Section 326A of the Penal Code has also mentioned the punishment which is
imprisonment that will be received by the convicted, read along with the Domestic Violence Act
1994.

This study refers to various reliable and validated resources as an indicator to figure out the main
factor that has contributed to the surge such as Acts and legal provisions such as the Domestic

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Violence Act 1994, the Child Act 2001, Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988
(Act 342), and the Penal Code Act 574. To conclude, the study will also figure out measures to
curve this violence and suggest ways to complement the inadequate aids proposed by the
authorities. Annual publications of international bodies such as UN Women and Council will
also be referred to where they are actively providing shelters and fundamental needs. So far, the
national crisis helpline prompted by the KPWKM (The Ministry of Women, Family and
Community Development) such as the ‘Talian Kasih’ and ‘Talian Nur’ has reported an
outrageous record of calls which is 57% only at the beginning of the MCO where helpline can be
presumed as inadequate due to economical cause.

1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

This study was conducted in Malaysia because the country has experienced catastrophic crises
caused by the epidemic of an unprecedented magnitude and impact. When the epidemic begins
in early March 2020, the new administration has just recently taken office. Concerns in Malaysia
have also been raised about the harmful effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and protracted MCO
on the mental health of vulnerable people as a result of social isolation, financial loss, and
exposure to toxic familial settings. This study has also been recommended to focus solely on
Malaysian situations due to rising trends in depression and anxiety, increased occurrences of
reported domestic abuse, marital distress, and a disproportionate increase in suicide rates and
stress levels over the period. In 2021, around 85.5 percent of callers to the government-run
Covid-19 hotline were for mental health support, with many expressing high stress caused by
financial, relationship, and mental health issues. There is also a critical need for cultural
resilience in the face of the pandemic's unavoidable stress and continual lockdowns.

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1.3 PROBLEM STATEMENT

 There are not yet sufficient data about domestic violence crime according to WAO
(Women’s Aid Organization) to explicitly expose the negative points of domestic
violence in Malaysia. The latest prevalence study about this criminal offence was only
conducted in 2013 by Malaysian Science University.

 Inadequate government response to this issue has simultaneously increase burden on the
health system whereas they have to strive to alleviate the overwhelming spread of
COVID-19 as well. Untreated violence might leads to AIDS, STIs, anxiety, depression,
PTSD, suicide attempt and other health conditions.

 Society’s stigma to the woman’s rights approach has brought a vast negative impact on
the movement of feminism and VAWG (Violence against Women & Girls). Gender
inequality issues in Malaysia not only discriminate and downgrade women at various
levels of society but also promoting to violence in relationships.

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1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

 How COVID-19 contribute to the surge of domestic violence cases in Malaysia?

 Is the punishment and remedies provided by the legal authorities to the perpetrator and
the victim sufficient?

 Is data and information provided by obligated authorities genuine and sufficient enough
to create awareness among the society about domestic violence?

1.5 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

 To figure out how the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the rose of domestic violence
cases in Malaysia.

 To figure out the most relevant punishment of the crime of domestic violence based on
decision that has been decided in previous court proceedings in order to come to a
definite punishment of the crime.

 To provide more genuine and explicit data about the domestic violence issues in
Malaysia.

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CHAPTER 2:
LITERATURE REVIEW

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2.1 COVID-19

Subsequently known as SARS-CoV-19, the fatal disease of COVID-19 has first reported in
Wuhan China on the early November 2019 that were assumed to be correlated to a wholesale
market in Wuhan that mostly sells exotic animals such as koala, alligator, raccoon, python and
venomous animal including pets such as cats and dogs are sold at the food market as a resource
of cuisine and delight of the local (Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Situation Report-94 ,
2020). According to a retrospective investigation by a Chinese authority, potential patients are
mostly the stall owners, regular visitors of the market including the suppliers. Initial
amplification were more convinced that COVID-19 first initiated by the market when an
environmental sample taken was tested positive of SARS-CoV-2. The phrase SARS is an
abbreviation of ‘Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome’ and this is not the first case of SARS
when in 2003, the outbreak of SARS-CoV-1 has been discovered but it was not as severe as the
latest SARS. SARS-CoV-2 is originated from SARS-CoV-1 and shares more than 70% of
genetic with SARS-CoV-1 and the symptoms recognized of both of these diseases show
resemblances of pneumonia symptoms of cough, breathing difficulties, and high body
temperature (Rat P, 2020) (Coronavirus (COVID-19), 2019).

SARS-CoV-1 has officially recognized as COVID-19 as its genetic sequence was published on
11 January 2020 and since then it has rapidly spread and the symptoms were very acute and yet
there were no vaccine found at that time. People were oddly died only by standing on the
roadside as the gem would also spread through airborne and physical contact. As of October
2021, there are 219 million cases of COVID-19 recorded globally and 4.55 million deaths so far
with United States of America is at the top of the podium followed by India and Brazil. These
countries recorded of almost 30,000 cases daily and thousands of new patients admitted every
day. The Caucasian continents have also severely impacted with over 69,872,620 of confirmed
cases. (WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Scoreboard , 2021). Assumption that COVID-19 was
ecologically originated from exotic animal which is bat can be considered as accurate according
to the discovery of related genetic of this virus in SARS-CoV-1 and other different genetic of
corona virus suggested that they all have close relation with bats. Many of fatal viruses came
from exotic animals that dwell in the jungle such as civet cats, bats and wild camels. Some of

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these animals were supposed to stay in their own habitat, undiscovered and preserved for some
reason but some people misunderstood this. Consumption of exotic animals in Wuhan has awake
the revolutionized SARS-CoV-1 that kills million of people across the region. For instance,
MERS-CoV or the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome was found in dromedary camels in the
Middle East in 2012 causing thousands of death.

Recently, a new delta variant of COVID-19 has surfaced in the United States and swept rapidly
through US and UK. It was first identified in India, accounting to more than 99% of the previous
variant leading to an overwhelming pitch of hospitalizations and death (Katella, 2021). Delta
variant of COVID-19 is transmissible that is also associated to higher risk of death and severe
illnesses correlated to respiratory capability of a normal human. Delta is expected to be more
dangerous and contagious as twice as COVID-19 but not as acute as Beta variant. Vaccinated
people will likely to expose to higher of risk of infection as it has evolved and revolutionized
during imitation process. In Malaysia alone, 265 cases of Delta variant has been identified from
16 August to 29 August 2021 (Bernama, 2021) (265 Covid-19 samples sequenced; 100pct Delta
variant, 2021).

As in October 2021, COVID-19 has severely impacted various economic sectors nationwide
such as aviation, tourism, manufacturing and services due to series of Movement Control Orders
implemented by the government to curb the spread of COVID-19. The outbreak has affected not
only economical and industry sector but also social and family welfare of the driving to
astonishing pitch in the number of crime cases especially domestic violence cases recorded in
Malaysia as most allegedly, the predator cannot go out regarding to the quarantine restriction
causing them to target their closest prey that were mostly students, teenagers and underage minor
(Abdullah, 2021). Although picking up the economy is not easy, but some hygienic manufacturer
of gloves, mask, hand sanitizer and sterile electronic appliances benefited from this pandemic
that soon will become an endemic.

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2.2 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Also known as spousal abuse, the Domestic Violence Act interprets domestic violence as an
abuse or omission that can also be considered as a crime or a tort. The mischief can be defined as
any destruction that are committed by a person towards his spouse or former spouse, a child and
disabled or impaired member of the family where he at that time, being aware that his action will
intimidates or distress the person. Constituted under section 2(b) indicated that if a person is (a)
willfully and knowing or attempted to put the victim in a physical injury (b) known or ought that
his actions will result in a physical injury (c) threatening or engaging her in any act, sexually or
not where she has the right to abstain (d) confining or detaining against the victim’s will (e)
destructing and causing mischief to property and aware that it will cause distress to the victim.
The Act will also be read with section 326A of the Penal Code as domestic violence also
recognized as a crime by the Constitution where the perpetrator can be punished with
imprisonment or twice of the period decided by the Judge if convicted. Domestic abuse is
commonly perpetrated by man as mentioned in the Act where as there is no phrase ‘she’ used to
convey the definition of the mischief. United Nation defined domestic violence as a gendered
based aggression following the definition of discrimination itself whereas it includes gender
based violence that is directed against women disproportionately that include physical, mental or
sexual conducts which is known to cause suffering, intimidation, coercion and deprivation of
liberty (Domestic abuse is a gendered crime, 2021).

Statistic shows that 39% of Malaysian women have been emotionally, physically, sexually and
financially abused by their current or former partner. Most of these victims are leave with
traumatic events in their head causing hallucination, suicide, PTSD and long-term incurable
depression. While women are the common gender that accepts such a treatment, men get abused
too. Cases of men getting abused by their woman partner are rare but it happens still as domestic
abuse does not discriminate by gender, age, economic level or ethnics. As long as there are
intimate correlation between a woman and man, then any harassment committed by either one is
considered as domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse consists in multiple form of harassment that can be categorized as an abuse
where the abuser conducts physical abuse towards the victim. One of those is the use of physical

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force and abusive behavior such as hitting, kicking, punching and even biting. It can also come
in form of sexual abuse where the abuser forces his or her spouse for any intercourse activity
without her consent either by intimidation or forceful actions. Domestic abuse can also come in
form of coercive patterns (emotionally) and financial abuse whereas the abuser criticizes,
threatens, conducts repercussions, condemn or downgrade the victim. Most cases of domestic
violence reported that the abuser will also refuse to let his partner to be independent with her
money or limiting access to the family’s financial access (Chan, 2015). COVID-19 has restricted
movement of every level of society. Perpetually, woman will likely be abused when they are
trapped in the same place and brainwashed by the abuser that they have nowhere else to go.
Abuser will commonly limit access of the victim so they cannot reach to the security as they are
fully aware of the risk that comes along with it.

To be precise, domestic violence is an enormous crime that does not only affect the victim
especially the wife; it also gives impact to the kids that witnessed the scenario where it can
alleviate their enthusiasm of initiating the same thing and affected their growth and will probably
last into their adulthood. Each year, children and adolescents were exposed to various form of
abuse that derived from different factors that leaves them to long-term traumatic events. Children
that were exposed to violence during their childhood will be prone to delinquency, victimization,
violence dating and frequent involvement with juvenile and disciplinary system. In addition, they
will also develop as a blunt and insensitive human being where they are always not physically
present during circumstances that need them to be focused. They will also undergo mental
illnesses such as anxiety, depression, aggression and constant difficulties with attachment as a
consequence of the trauma they endure when they were young (David Finkelhor, 2009). As in
US alone, children aged between 14 and 17 were most likely to experience to more serious form
of violence such as physical and emotional abuse including domestic violence that involves their
parents being assaulted. Child is also categorized as a victim of domestic abuse as constituted in
the Domestic Violence Act 1994 under Article 326A. The Child Act 2001 has epitomized
children as an important component of the society considering the fact that they are not yet
mature enough and requires special needs and protection from their parents or lawful guardian
(Yusop, 2021).

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2.3 CORRELATION OF COVID-19 TO THE SPIKE

In surviving the outbreak of COVID-19 and its prolonged stress, family institutions has been
affected severely due to the crisis of financial, socioeconomics, and social. Studies show that
gender-based is a common issue to be a polemic during wake of emergencies and crisis as
women has always been considered as second-class gender considering their strength and
physical limitations. Moreover, it has also lead to a pitch in domestic violence cases in Malaysia
due to lockdowns and movement restriction causing victims of the abuse to be restrained in the
house and deal with the abuser alone. COVID-19 has also leaded to major alleviation of tensions
and tempers among the family member especially the husband or the father that are obligated to
put food on the table. As a result, the helpline call log has been flooded by numbers of calls
seeking for help to escape the abuse they strive to omit from the cramped situation they are
suffering. Series of MCO has also heighten the abuse and overt the exercise control of the abuser
himself as they become emboldened knowing that the victim have nowhere to go and to seek
help. Not getting proper access has also increase the severity of the abuse.

Statistic shows that financial issue is one of the most aggravated factors that contributed to the
spike of domestic violence cases in Malaysia. Reduced financial capability of both man and
woman during the hard time of COVID-19 has added to higher level of stress and subsequently
leads the abuser to use their spouse as a punching bag to release their tension. Moreover, having
to stay in the very same environment during both consecutive day and week in close proximity
will also heighten the likelihood of the abuse. In United States alone, the National Domestic
Violence helpline has received a massive number of 2, 000 calls that are related to cases of
domestic violence that happened during the pandemic when it starts on March 2020. Majority of
the victim is essential workers that were deprived to go out to their workplace as their spouse is
restraining them from doing so. As for Australia, the country has witnessed 75% rise of the daily
call received by the helpline. More disturbing scenario was seen in UK as the country recorded
over 12 cases of death caused by violence done at home by women’s spouse. The amount rises
over 50% in Great Britain and it can be considered as the worse as the average record was only 5
to 6 case only in the past 10 years.

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As the consequences, some of the victim has blamed themselves for being abused and being less
likely to report the violence. Issues of self-blaming are not an odd experience in our society and
it might turn to be very dangerous, especially during self-isolation. Victim blaming themselves is
a severe issue affecting from the abuse they accept from their partner as a result of frustration,
misunderstanding, devastation and exhaustion. Victim will constantly blame themselves for not
being good enough for their partner, causing them to be submissive due to the reason that they
are already despair at the moment. This issue also derived from the society’s stigma propagating
that women should always forgive and obedient, and never to argue husband’s order making it
more legal to the abuser to proceed with his action. Ministry of Women, Family and Community
Development in one of their campaign inserted that patriarchal stereotypes that the harmony
environment of the house is derived by the woman alone is a total wrong. Housewives or even
aggravated husband should stand for themselves and understand that they does not have to put up
with their abusive partner instead of reporting their misconduct to the authorities or lodge a
report. Survivors should also be aware about their relatives or closest friends that are always
available so they know where to seek help during contingencies circumstances.

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CHAPTER 3:

RESEARCH

METHODOLOGY

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3.1 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research methodology can be interpreted as a set of systematic techniques used by researcher to

collect data for the research purpose that will be conducted by diving deeper into the limitations
and resources available that are found related to the topic of the research. In order to authorize
the source, researcher will gather information through several methods such as interview,
desktop research, sampling and many more. Furthermore, the manner in conducting a research is
to have a significant philosophy which is to assemble, dissected and utilize the information at its
utmost. There are several types of philosophy embraced by researchers which is positivism,
critical-realism, interpretivism, post-modernism and pragmatism. Philosophy is supposed to
navigate the study to derive to a theory development and methodological research. Philosophy is
also the core or the hub of the study that originates to all the other sequence and process. As in
this study, philosophy of interpretivism will be where the choices of respondent will be analyze
to reach the outcome or the conclusion of the survey (thesismind, 2019). Frequent studies grasp
to this philosophy as they believe that it’s only need to some basic steps to reach to the
conclusion. For instance, respondent will be asked to watch some footage or recording where
their spontaneous reflexes will be observed by the sociologist to come up to a conclusion. Below
is the research onion developed by Saunders that illustrates the development of a research work
during every process (C.R.Kothari, 2004) (Igwenagu, 2016).

Source: © 2015 Mark Saunders, Philip Lewis and Adrian Thornhill

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This study is determined to choose interpretivism where subjective and collective data will be
exquisitely argued in this research. Interpretivism will also help acquire deep understanding from
each respondent that participated in the study. Also, by conducting qualitative approach,
intentional of the audience can also be converted and constructed into the utmost genuine data
where it respects the symbolic nature of their language and their universal hermeneutic problem.
There are several authorized methods and techniques that can be used by researchers and
sociologist in order for them to collect data. The table below shows the quadrants of significant
methods. This study focuses on the

Source: (C.M, 2006)

3.2 METHODS IN COLLECTING DATA

3.2.1 METHOD OF SAMPLING

The method of sampling is a method that concerns of selecting a group of people as a respondent
from a specific chosen population. Population can be defined as the collection of an element that
shares common characteristics. The size of the population is determined by the number of the
population itself. By drawing the respondent into a specific area of people where the researcher
will first recognize the most domain behavior or feature while distinguishing other variable
behavior. Survey sampling is widely use in various sector of research to gather information of a

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population. As a correlation between the method of sampling and a population, sample is a part
of the population called by ‘subset’ that will be selected as the representatives of the whole
population. These representatives are called ‘respondent’. As the researcher has defined his
subset, this subset will then recognize as sample size (Singh, 2018). Sampling techniques are
grouped into two difference quadrants which are probability sampling and non-probability
sampling. Probability sampling does not limit any respondent to participate while non-
probability does. This explains that every element gets equal privilege to be chosen to participate
in the survey as much as the other while non-probability limits the selection to eligible particular
group or features that fits the study preferences or needs. This study uses the method of
probability sampling which is the ‘simple random sampling’ where every element will be
receiving the same opportunities to participate in the survey. As for the respondent, this study
focuses on the MSU community that does not discriminate them by their gender, age, racial
background or educational level.

Stages of the sampling consist of several crucial processes that will be done in sequence. First of
all, the researcher will define the population that will be concerned in the survey and precisely
specify the sampling frame. Specifying selects the items that will be used during the
confrontation. The survey will now initiate where researcher will provide the respondent with a
set of questionnaire that are related to the study either in a hard copy or virtual questionnaire.

3.2.2 WHY DO I CHOSE PROBABILITY SAMPLING

 Probability sampling would alleviate the risk of potential respondent that has been
involved in any domestic violence cases from being left out of answering the
questionnaire. Their opinion is crucial to provide the most genuine and accurate data for
the purpose of the research.

 As domestic abuse does not discriminate based on gender or age, this method of sampling
would not dictate any individual’s opportunity to give their opinion either if they are a
man, a woman or even a minor (below 18 years old).

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 Probability sampling can also be considered as the most effectual method from the any
other type of quantitative researches. Not limiting the subset based on any standard or
background will widen the perspective of the study.

3.2.3 WHAT KIND OF DATA DO WE COLLECT?

The study aimed to identify the level of awareness of the society towards the gender
discrimination issues including the level of awareness towards the domestic violence cases spike
in Malaysia especially among the MSU community as the subset of the sampling survey.
Besides, the study also targeted to suggest any complimentary aids to assist the survivor
regarding to the issue of inadequate aid to help assist the survivor during the endemic.

3.2.4 LIST OF QUESTIONS

(  ) on the answer you find relevant. Please be genuine with your answer.

No Question Answer Options

.
Answer Sequence A B C D E
1 Do you believe that the Yes No Maybe - -
COVID-19 pandemic
has contributed to the
spike in domestic
violence cases in
Malaysia?

2 The financial crisis is Yes No Maybe - -

the main factor that
contributed to the pitch
of domestic violence
cases during the
pandemic.

3 Domestic violence or Yes No Maybe - -

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spousal abuse happened
to 2 million women and
800 000 men all around
the globe. Abuse comes
in the form of physical,
emotional, and sexual.
In your opinion, is
cyber-stalking the
victim considered
abuse?
4 Is vandalizing the Yes No Maybe - -
victim's property
considered abuse?

5 Being abused is never Yes No Maybe - -

an option. In your
opinion, does the victim
play the role to save
themselves from being
abused?

6 Is abusing a child Yes No Maybe - -

considered domestic
violence?

7 Can a man be abused Yes No Maybe - -

too?
8 Domestic violence does Yes No Maybe - -
not only affect the
victim physically but
also mentally and
emotionally. Is this
statement true?
9 These actions can be slapping pinching choking - -
considered as an assault
if they intimidate the
victim, except for
10 Headache, upset stress cancer fever - -
stomach, rashes, sleep
problems are symptoms
of
11 Aminul is an 8 years old Yes No Maybe - -
child that constantly
receives harsh treatment
from his parent as they
thought that by letting
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him starve, it will
educate him to be more
organized. Is his parent's
stand sounds righteous
to your consciousness?
12 A man bit his wife to Yes No Maybe - -
show dominance in their
relationship and
eventually inflicted her
forearm to be wounded.
She was scared but then
learned to accept her
fate. Is his action
considered abuse?
13 Maryam manages her Yes No Maybe - -
children welfare while
still having to go to
work. Her husband is
also an employee but he
doesn't think that there
is a need for him to take
care of the children as
Maryam does. Did you
find this situation
unjust?
14 Adam forces his wife to Yes No Maybe - -
engage in unsafe sexual
practices but she
refuses. Adam then
intimidates her saying
that he has a right upon
her as a husband and
Adam will divorce her if
she keeps refusing. Is
Adam being abusive
towards his wife?

15 Aminun's partner keeps Yes No Maybe - -

calling him names and
downgrades him. Is this
sit right with you?
16 Low educational status, Low Incompatibility Ethical None of -
incompatibility in educational in income issues them
income, and ethical status
issues are the most
common factor of

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domestic violence.
Which of these factors is
incorrect?
17 What do you understand A belief A political A - -
of feminism? party movement
18 Who or what makes you Never My parent, From my From viral No
aware of feminism? heard of it relatives or own reading circumstan ne
friend ces ab
ov
e
19 What does feminism Women’s Women Fights for - -
fight for? rights and leaders’ rights the right of
equality and equality LGBTQ
community
20 Women still getting Yes No Maybe - -
double-standard
treatment until this day.
Is this statement
relevant?
21 Do you think feminism Yes No Maybe - -
movement relevant to be
fought in Malaysia?
22 Feminism only fights for Yes No Maybe - -
women's rights at their
workplace. Is this
statement true?
23 Feminism Yes No Maybe - -
revolutionized from
time to time to fight for
24 In your opinion, what is Feminism Feminism Feminism Feminism -
the correlation between favors encourage assists supports
feminism movement and certain women to women to women to
combating domestic political stand up for overpower be
violence? party themselves man rebellious
25 The Ministry of a a private an NGO a govern- -
Women, Family, and subsidiary affiliation mental
Community of PPIM institution
Development is
___________ that are
responsible for the
welfare of the women,
children, and disabled
community.
26 Does the punishment Yes Not enough Maybe - -
(maximum 20 years of

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imprisonment, whipping
& fine) provision in the
Penal Code 574 and the
Domestic Violence Act
1994 sufficient to curb
the crime?

3.2.5 WHO IS THE TARGET AUDIENCE?

MSU community is by far the most suited target of the survey. Accessible location and well-
aware target audience will surely contribute a lot to the elasticity of the survey. In conjunction of
MSU being an educational facility, MSU community can be considered as educated and open-
minded, making it less hard to disseminate the data and getting more relevant and dependable
outcome.

3.2.6 HOW WILL WE COLLECT DATA?

First of all, the questionnaire will be distributed through virtual medium such WhatsApp groups,
Instagram, and Twitter. Social media helps a lot to easily distribute the questionnaire as it is
more accessible and consume the least of time and energy to reach the target audience. Before
the respondent answer the questions, she or he will be asked regarding their consent concerning
the risk that some of the question might be insensitive or explicit. As the session considered
permissible, the respondent will then fill in the Google form by just tapping the options that has
been required in the questionnaire. Each session requires around 20 minutes to answer all 30
questions, depends on the time taken by the respondent. Other than close-ended questions, the
respondent will also be questioned with some open-ended question considering the fact that the
survey is targeting to specific, reliable and genuine answer. Open-ended question requires the
respondent to not just agree or disagree with the statement but also to elaborate the reason why
they picked the answer. This type of question will also allow the respondent to be more carefree
and truthful with the answer they are providing. The outcome of the survey will then be collected
and analyze to reach to a hypothesis and supposition. Last but not least, the personal information

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of the respondent will also be hidden as they are considered confidential and would not be
included in the paper.

3.2.7 HOW WILL WE ANALYSE DATA?

Qualitative data analysis will be used to synthesize the findings and develop conclusions at the
end of the study. This stage is crucial for retrieving the survey's information precisely. The study
findings will be taken from credible sources and recorded in previous surveys. This study will
also collect survey results, which will be compiled alongside the initial set of conclusions
derived from earlier surveys and data. The study will then produce conclusions to back up the
existing data and discover a correlation to what the study has suggested. The outcome of the
study will be included at the end of the paper.

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CHAPTER 4:

DATA ANALYSIS

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CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS

To reach to the outcome of the paper, data analysis will be conducted by comparing the findings
of the research with the literature review that has been included beforehand. To reach to the most
genuine outcome, collected data will be summarized and interpreted to determine pattern and
relationships between those two elements. Issues which are derived from the research question
will be answered in this chapter.

First and foremost, the first issue is to answer whether COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to
the surge of domestic violence cases in Malaysia. According to an article released by the New
Straits Times, Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact on the socioeconomic sector, with tens of
millions of people at danger of falling into extreme poverty as a result of employment loss. Since
January, around 100,000 Malaysians have reportedly lost their jobs. Loss of income not only
affects some families' ability to buy food, but it also makes it difficult to maintain a pleasant
family life. Financial troubles are one of three variables that contribute to domestic violence,
according to police statistics (Majid, 2020). In another reliable article, lockdowns and enforced
movement control orders during the Covid-19 pandemic have led to a spike in domestic violence
all across the world. For example, Canada’s Assaulted Women’s Helpline received 20,334 calls
between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31, 2020, compared to 12,352 over the same period in 2019 alongside
with Mexico, India and Kazakhstan (Ranee, 2021 ).

The case of 33-year-old Lisa Saldana in Clovis, USA shown that this pandemic has severely
impacted marriage and family institution where she has been shot by her husband, a 37-year-old
Antonio Saldana before he ended his own life. Antonio is still in the hospital and his wife was in
the process of getting a restraining order before the incident. Domestic violence cases at the
particular area have worsened since pandemic arrived in early 2020 (Koch, 2021). In correlation,
socioeconomic, social and family welfare has been severely affected especially the financial
sector as it’s the prime contributor of a country. As a resemblance, the survey conducted has also
found that 79.5% of the respondents agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to the
spike in domestic violence cases in Malaysia. In relation, the second question has asked
whether the financial crisis is the main factor that contributed to the pitch of domestic violence
cases during the pandemic. As a result, 82% of the respondents believed that financial crisis is
the main factor that contributed to the pitch of domestic violence cases. The outcomes has

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brought to a decision that most Malaysian agreed that the pandemic has contributed to the
spike of the violence nationwide due to the economic downturn.

The second issue is to answer the question of whether the punishment and remedies provided by
the legal authorities to the perpetrator and the victim sufficient. Gender-based violence has been
one of the most neglected outcomes of pandemics based on factors of economic insecurity and
alcohol consumption that has attributed to the surge. Thus, legislation and services available to
such victims are sometimes insufficient, exacerbating their condition. (Shalini Mitthal, 2021).
There is also no exquisite provision that outline coercive behavior in intimate relationship as a
crime driving victim to be more pressed as the perpetrator’s aggravated action cannot still be
brought to justice (May, 2014). The case of Chin Yoke Yin v Tan Theam Huat [2015] 11 MLJ
577 is a landmark case of a victim of domestic violence has been awarded monetary
compensation for personal injuries. A victim of domestic violence suffers personal injuries or
damage to property or financial loss as a result of the domestic violence, section 10(1) of the
DVA empowers the court to “award such compensation in respect of the injury or damage or loss
as it deems just and reasonable”. The case of Chin Yoke Yin v Tan Theam Huat [2015] 11 MLJ
577 is a landmark case of the topic of domestic violence. This case has been referred by
numerous judgments to find to a justice and fair punishment or compensation that should have
been granted to the perpetrator of the violence. As in this case, the Judge has granted to a
monetary compensation in the behalf of the abuser.

Whilst the Section 326A of the Penal Code mentioned the punishment which is imprisonment
that will be received by the convicted, read along with the Domestic Violence Act 1994. To be
precise, probably the punishment constituted by both of the Act is more relevant to be sentenced
to the criminal as it seen to be sufficient enough as punishments does not suppose to only
intimidate the public but might as well alleviate the enthusiasm and courage of the perpetrator
himself. A punishment is aimed to propose deterrence in order for the commission to frighten
and intimidate the public and potential criminal from initiating to any crime intended and there
are two types of deterrence which is specific and general deterrence. An individual defendant is
subject to specific deterrence. When the government punishes an individual defendant, he or she
is theoretically less likely to commit another crime out of fear of receiving a similar or worse

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punishment in the future. General deterrence applies to the public at large. When the public
learns of an individual defendant’s punishment, the public is theoretically less likely to commit a
crime because of fear of the punishment the defendant experienced. When the public learns, for
example, that an individual defendant was severely punished by a sentence of life in prison or the
death penalty, this knowledge can inspire a deep fear of criminal prosecution. As in the matter of
rehabilitating, this effort reduces future crime by changing a defendant's mindset. Educational
and vocational programs, treatment centre placement, and counseling are all examples of
rehabilitation. The court may combine rehabilitation with jail, probation, or parole. Nonviolent
drug offenders, for example, must participate in rehabilitation in addition to probation in several
jurisdictions, rather than submitting to jail . This will also reduces the burden on jails and prisons
while also cutting recidivism, or reoffending. Retribution reduces future crime by diminishing
the urge for personal vengeance (in the form of assault, battery, and criminal homicide, for
example) against the defendant. When victims or society learn that a defendant has been
sufficiently punished for a crime, they gain a sense of satisfaction that our criminal justice
system is functioning properly, which increases trust in law enforcement and our government
(The Purposes of Punishment, 2021).

In collaboration, the survey conducted has come to an outcome of 37.9% of the respondents that
disagree with the question of whether the punishment (maximum 20 years of imprisonment,
whipping & fine) provisioned in the Penal Code 574 and the Domestic Violence Act 1994
sufficient to curb the crime while 36.8% agrees indicates that there is no big of a difference. As
a conclusion, the punishment that has been constituted by the Commission is sufficient and
enough to both punish the criminal and educate the public to make them aware and intimidated
of the consequences.

The third issue is whether data and information provided by obligated authorities genuine and
sufficient enough to create awareness among the society about domestic violence. To relate the
question with both of the literature review and collected data, the respondents will be asked basic
questions that are related to the topic of domestic violence and feminism. Despite receiving
protection orders by the court, victims of domestic violence are often left unprotected and
vulnerable to further abuse due to lack of enforcement. It demonstrates a significant gap between

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existing rules to protect victims of domestic abuse from their abuser (Indramalar, 2014). The
Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), the Social Welfare Department, and the Ministry of Health
respectively compile statistics on the number of DV cases that they handle; these statistics reveal
reported cases, and not the actual reality of DV in Malaysia (Malaysia must track domestic
violence prevalence, through the National Health and Morbidity Survey: A Policy Brief by
Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO) July 2020, 2020). The case of Diana Raz where she has been
killed by her husband as she was trapped in their toxic relationship where both, at age 35 have
got into constant argument, driving the husband to be super mad at his wife. Subsequently, on
February 5, Amir has killed his wife by first tying her up alongside with their 3 of four little
children. Amir then strangled and beat his wife right in front of their kids whilst they scream for
help for the sake of the mother. Eventually, Diana managed to escape but Amir shot her and
immediately ended her life. This case has open up the eyes of the authorities regarding to their
mistake of not being fully aware about the severity of domestic terrorism as it has worsened over
the year (ILTVIsrael, 2021). To concise, data and information provided by obligated authorities
of the PDRM and NGOs is not yet enough to create awareness of how severe the impact of
domestic violence may brought to the well being-being of the society especially women. In fact,
thousands of women and children from all communities, class, background, race and religion are
experiencing these abuses daily in our society. Mostly, they suffer in silence. They do not know
the options of getting help and support. They are not aware of the law and the legislation to get
protection, to seek justice and demand their rights. As an example, the Domestic Violence Act
1994 that all provisions is supposed to be read together with the provisions of the Penal Code.
Though there are sufficient provisions for physical abuse, there is no provision for psychological
abuse. Such abuses are quite commonly reported but in view of the absence of such an offence
under the Penal Code, investigation procedures will not be initiated and knowing the fact that
majority people does not aware about this fact is dreadful.

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CHAPTER 5:

CONCLUSION

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CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION

5.1 CONCLUSION OF THE STUDY

This study has provided to an overview of surge in domestic violence cases that have been
contributed by COVID-19 outbreak and its correlation to the surge. There is no exception when
it comes to COVID-19 victim that has alleviate the risk of women, girls and even children to be
violated and abuse due to increased employment rates, economic insecurity, and limited
movement that has also heightened the risk that the victim must accept the harsh reality that they
will be ended living under the same proximity as the abuser. Domestic violence survivors are
trapped in the same constraints as their abusers under the existing lockdown and stay-at-home
orders, with few possibilities for escape. Despite the fact that the virus is raging outside,
survivors often assume they are safer at home. When financial demands mount, abusers are more
likely to lash out at their victims. According to statistics, financial difficulties are one of the key
factors worsening domestic abuse in Malaysia. Unfortunately, the women's lessened financial
capabilities allow their abusers to exert even more pressure during this period.

Financial insecurity has been established as the primary cause of the rise, as supported by the
survey, secondary data analysis, and analysis conducted from over 80 authorized articles.
Domestic violence should be seen as an emerging public health issue, deserving of greater
exposure and understanding in light of the looming dangers posed by this crime, which affects
not only the victim but also the child and other household members. Patriarchal prejudices
originating from the idea that women are just a subset of men are completely incorrect.
Housewives or even irritated husbands should know how to stand up for themselves and
understand that they do not have to put up with their abusive partner instead of reporting their
misconduct to the police or filing a report.

In terms of the punishment imposed by the authorities, numerous respondents disagree, claiming
that the perpetrator deserves harsher punishment. The trauma will not only affect the victim's
current life circumstances, but also the emotional and mental stability of the aggravated party.
The incurable phobia must be endured by the victim's children and other family members who
may have been present when the abuse occurred. This matter has been stated in Chapter 4 of
Data Analysis, where if the sentence achieved to deter, rehabilitate, and requite the criminal, then

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it declares to be sufficient to be opposed upon the culprit. According of the survey results and
surges in abuse during the epidemic, the commission may oppose a more severe penalty; yet, the
punishment enacted does not appear to operate well in deterring the criminal and the public of
how unpleasant the payback is. Data and information provided by required authorities of the
PDRM and NGOs are insufficient to raise awareness of how severe the impact of domestic abuse
may be on the well-being of society, particularly women. In truth, thousands of women and
children from all communities, classes, backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions face these
atrocities regularly in our society. They usually endure in quiet. They are unaware of their
alternatives for receiving assistance and support. They are unaware of the law and legislation
available to them to obtain protection, seek justice, and assert their rights.

5.2 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

During the completion of this research paper, there are different difficulties and limitations as a
result of various primary reasons. To begin with, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has limited
movement and made it impossible to approach the lecturer for regular assistance and reference.
Even if the epidemic has provided students with mobility, it does not assist the students become
more participatory with the instructor as in person interaction is more effective compare to
discussion made virtually. The use of platforms such as ZOOM and Google Meet has been quite
beneficial, but it is not as successful as face-to-face connection.

Aside from that, Shah Alam has been plagued by a terrible flood for approximately three weeks,
beginning in the first week of December 2021, making it difficult to reach some authorities
because everyone is affected by the crisis. Not only has landed property and residential housing
been reduced to rubble and debris, but it has also had an impact on the schedules and lessons of
students and lecturers. The flood has also changed the colloquium, which is an event organized
by the university for Final Year Students to submit our final contribution to the university, which
is our research paper. As a result, we are only able to document our research findings as proof
rather than exhibit them virtually. Not to mention that we missed the Q&A sessions, this would
have been beneficial to us in the future as we prepare to begin our internship the following

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semester. However, the video is accessible online on YouTube at https://youtu.be/-
VMZIVHB4BA.

Furthermore, because this research paper was assigned to us individually, I must accept the
possibility that I will not have enough time to complete the research. Despite this, the period
allotted to me to acquire additional exposure and feedback on my survey was so short which is 3
weeks that I only managed to gain about a hundred respondents, which is pretty upsetting given
that I am working on my final research project. Having had to deal with not one, but two natural
disasters, as well as other side effects such as blackouts, miscommunications, and other issues, I
must say that ODL is not as simple as some may believe. I must admit that I also missed out on a
lot of valuable experiences such as physical lessons, face-to-face meetings, and class debates
with peers. I learned a lot of things being a student during a pandemic, and I believe that if I ever
given the opportunity to be a student again, I will value it to the best of my ability. Not to
mention, I rely heavily on reliable sources I found on the internet, as well as articles and surveys
conducted by authorities such as the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development
(KPWKM), PDRM, and WAO, to guide me because I am unable to visit physical libraries in my
area, such as the MSU library, the Raja Tun Uda Library, and the WAO headquarters, which is
only a stone's throw away from MSU.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

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I would like to express a million thanks to Dr. Nur Amalina Binti Abdul Ghani for her
contribution in assisting me throughout the journey of completing this research paper.
Considering the fact that she is the only lecturer that has guided me throughout my journey, I
found her consultancy to be very helpful for me to retain my spirit and motivation despite of the
obstacles and limitations that I have to endure as most of the consultancy sessions have been
conducted virtually due to the limitation of movement during the pandemic. I would also want to
thank my beloved father, Mr. Azman Bin Mohd Termizi, and Mrs. Fadhilah Hanem Shahidin for
their endless support and prayers.

May Allah S.W.T grant these beautiful people all the prosperity and serenities in this worldly life
and afterlife as well as they deserves it more than anyone else.

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REFERENCES

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REFERENCES

265 Covid-19 samples sequenced; 100pct Delta variant. (2021, September 1). Retrieved from
yahoo!news : https://malaysia.news.yahoo.com/265-covid-19-samples-sequenced-
222900978.html
Abdullah, S. M. (2021). Rape cases in Kelantan increase during MCO period. Kelantan : New
Straits Time .
Bernama. (2021). 265 Delta variant cases detected over the past 2 weeks. Kuala Lumpur : New
Straits Time .
C.M, I. (2006). Collection of Data: Basic Statistics and Probability. Enugu, Nigeria : Prince
Press and Communications.
C.R.Kothari. (2004). Research Methodology: Methods & Techniques . Jaipur, India: NEW AGE
INTERNATIONAL PUBLISHERS .
Chan, D. S. (2015, December 30). Facts and Information on Domestic Abuse and Violence.
Retrieved from IMU : https://imunews.imu.edu.my/health/facts-domestic-abuse-violence/
Coronavirus (COVID-19). (2019, June 30). Retrieved from NHS UK:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pneumonia/
(2020). Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Situation Report-94 . USA : WHO.
David Finkelhor, H. T. (2009). Children’s Exposureto Violence: A Comprehensive National
Study . Juvenile Justice Bulletin , 3.
Domestic abuse is a gendered crime. (2021). Retrieved from Women Said UK:
https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/what-is-domestic-abuse/domestic-
abuse-is-a-gendered-crime/
Igwenagu, C. (2016, April). Fundamentals of Research Methodogy & Data Collection . Research
Methodolgy, pp. 3-6.
ILTVIsrael. (2021, February 10). Murder of Diana Raz. Retrieved from Youtube:
https://youtu.be/EbsADeaXpuo
Indramalar, S. (2014). Refuse abuse: Finding the power to stop Domestic Abuse . Kuala Lumpur:
The Star.
Katella, K. (2021). 5 Things To Know About the Delta Variant. Connecticut : Yale Medicine .
Koch, S. J. (2021, September 23). One Killed in Triple Shooting in Clovis . (M. E. NEWS),
Interviewer)
Majid, W. R. (2020). Do More to Curb Domestic Violence . Malaysia : NST.

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(2020). Malaysia must track domestic violence prevalence, through the National Health and
Morbidity Survey: A Policy Brief by Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO) July 2020. Kuala
Lumpur : WAO.
May, T. (2014, August). Strengthening the Law on Domestic Abuse- A Consultation. Retrieved
from
file:///C:/Users/user/Downloads/Strengthening%20the%20Law%20on%20Domestic%20
Abuse%20-%20A%20Consultation.pdf
Ranee, A. (2021 ). COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND RELATED RISE IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE .
Kuala Lumpur : Academia .
Rat P, O. E. (2020). Antibiotics & Inflammasome Modulators Potential. SARS-CoV-2 vs. SARS-
CoV-1 Management.
Shalini Mitthal, T. S. (2021). Gender Based Violence during Covid-19 Pandemic: A Mini Review
. Kuala Lumpur : UKM .
Singh, S. (2018). Sampling Techniques. Canada: Towards Data Science.
The Purposes of Punishment. (2021, December 30). Retrieved from OER Services:
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-criminallaw/chapter/1-5-the-purposes-of-
punishment/
thesismind. (2019, June 29). Analysis of Saunders Research Onion. Retrieved from thesismind:
https://thesismind.com/analysis-of-saunders-research-onion/
WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Scoreboard . (2021, September 29). Retrieved from WHO :
https://covid19.who.int/
Yusop, Y. (2021). CHILD ABUSE IN MALAYSIA: LEGAL MEASURES FOR THE. 163RD
INTERNATIONAL TRAINING COURSE, 56.

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APPENDIX

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APPENDIX

FINDINGS OF THE SURVEY

The survey has been conducted online through the medium of Google Form and disseminated
through virtual social networking sites of Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, and TikTok by
implementing the voluntary purposive sampling methods. An amount of 99 respondents
answered the questionnaire even though it has also accepted some backlash and criticism. The
questionnaire has been divided into four major sections to allow the researcher to focus on each
subsection exquisitely. An amount of 99 respondents answered the questionnaire even though it
has also accepted some backlash and criticism that will also be included at the end of the
findings in hope that further actions can be considered and constituted.

The findings and answers to each question are as below.

A. TO ASK ABOUT THE CORRELATION OF COVID-19 AND FINANCIAL

INSTABILITY

1. Do you believe that the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to the spike in domestic
violence cases in Malaysia?

Conclusion: Almost 80% of the respondents believe that the COVID-19 pandemic has
contributed to a spike in domestic violence cases in Malaysia.

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2. The financial crisis is the main factor that contributed to the pitch of domestic violence
cases during the pandemic.

Conclusion: Majority of the respondents believe that financial instability has led to the pitch
of the abuse during the pandemic.

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B. TO TRACK THE LEVEL OF AWARENESS ACCORDING TO DOMESTIC
VIOLENCE

3. Domestic violence or spousal abuse happened to 2 million women and 800 000 men all
around the globe. Abuse comes in the form of physical, emotional, and sexual. In your
opinion, is cyber-stalking the victim considered abuse?

Conclusion: Almost 20% of the respondents are not sure that cyber-stalking is also a form of
domestic abuse while 73.9% do.

4. Is vandalizing the victim's property considered abuse?

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Conclusion: Majority of the respondents are aware that vandalizing victims’ property is also a
form of abuse.

5. Being abused is never an option. In your opinion, does the victim play the role to save
themselves from being abused?

Conclusion: Victims do play a role to commit escapism for them to save themselves from the
hold of the abuser according to 69% of the respondents.

6. Is abusing a child considered domestic violence?

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Conclusion: Almost 80% of the respondents believe that abusing a child is also considered
domestic violence and this belief is aligned with the definition of the abuse that
has been constituted by the Domestic Violence Act 1994.

7. Can a man be abused too?

Conclusion: 82 out of 87 respondents believe that man can be abused too. This answer is
correct even though oppression upon man can be considered as rare.

8. Domestic violence does not only affect the victim physically but also mentally and
emotionally. Is this statement true?

Conclusion: 83 out of 85 respondents answered correctly.

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9. These actions can be considered as an assault if they intimidate the victim, except for

Conclusion: 30 respondents have answered incorrectly indicating confusion and unawareness

that domestic violence intimidates the victim and may come in the form of the
slightest abuse such as pinching and threats.

10. Headache, upset stomach, rashes, sleep problems are symptoms of

Conclusion: A mass amount of respondents believe that headaches, stomachache, and

insomnia are derived from stress.

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11. Aminul is an 8 years old child that constantly receives harsh treatment from his parent as
they thought that by letting him starve, it will educate him to be more organized. Is his
parent's stand sounds righteous to your consciousness?

Conclusion: 75 out of 86 respondents were dissatisfied with the situation stated in the question
indicating to high-level of awareness of violence upon children.

12. A man bit his wife to show dominance in their relationship and eventually inflicted her
forearm to be wounded. She was scared but then learned to accept her fate. Is his action
considered abuse?

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Conclusion: The keyword ‘scared’ has indicated that the man’s action is abuse and most of
the respondents agreed to this statement.

13. Maryam manages her children welfare while still having to go to work. Her husband is
also an employee but he doesn't think that there is a need for him to take care of the
children as Maryam does. Did you find this situation unjust?

Conclusion: Majority of the respondents found that the situation indicated in the question was
unfair and provides no equality on the behalf of the mother.

14. Adam forces his wife to engage in unsafe sexual practices but she refuses. Adam then
intimidates her saying that he has a right upon her as a husband and Adam will divorce
her if she keeps refusing. Is Adam being abusive towards his wife?

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Conclusion: A husband has no authority to force his wife to engage in any sexual practices
she is not consenting to and the majority of the respondents believe that this
statement is true.

15. Aminun's partner keeps calling him names and downgrades him. Is this sits right with
you?

Conclusion: Less than 20% of the respondents were agreed and uncertain whether unconstructive
criticism is not healthy for a relationship.

16. Low educational status, incompatibility in income, and ethical issues are the most common
factor of domestic violence. Which of these factors is incorrect?

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Conclusion: More than half of the respondents are unaware and uncertain of the most common
factors that have contributed to the spike.

C. TO TRACK THE LEVEL OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF EQUALITY MOVEMENT

17. What do you understand of feminism?

Conclusion: The majority of the respondents are already acknowledging the movement of
feminism whilst 24 of them answered incorrectly and 1 does not yet understand.

18. Who or what makes you aware of feminism?

Conclusion: 52.3% of the respondents have indicated that researches of their own make them
aware of feminism.

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19. What does feminism fight for?

Conclusion: Most of the respondents answered correctly.

20. Women still getting double-standard treatment until this day. Is this statement relevant?

Conclusion: 36.3% of the respondents disagreed and were unsure of whether women are still
discriminated in every level of society or not.

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21. Do you think feminism movement relevant to be fought in Malaysia?

Conclusion: 12.5% and 27.3% of the respondents found feminism to be irrelevant to be fought in
Malaysia and some were uncertain.

22. Feminism only fights for women's rights at their workplace. Is this statement true?

Conclusion: Almost 70% of the respondents agreed that feminism is not ought to fight for women’s
rights and equality only at the workplace but also at every level of society and
hierarchy.

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23. Feminism revolutionized from time to time to fight for

Conclusion: Only 60% of the respondents were aware of the core purpose of feminism indicating
that most of the respondents were still misunderstood about the main purpose of the
movement.

24. In your opinion, what is the correlation between feminism movement and combating
domestic violence?

Conclusion: The high percentage of 93% indicated that most respondents were aware that
feminism encourages women to speak up for themselves.

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25. The Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development is ___________ that are
responsible for the welfare of the women, children, and disabled community.

Conclusion: Almost 80% of the respondents aware that the Ministry of Women, Family, and
Community Development is an obligated authority to speak up voices of aggravated
women and provide aids.

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D. TO ACKNOWLDEGDE RESPONDENT PERSONAL OPINION REGARDING TO
THE PUNISHMENT

26. Does the punishment (maximum 20 years of imprisonment, whipping & fine) provision in
the Penal Code 574 and the Domestic Violence Act 1994 sufficient to curb the crime?

Conclusion: 37.9% of the respondents disagree with the amount of the punishment provided by
the commission but probably the most sufficient and accurate punishment of the
crime is the one that has been constituted in the Domestic Violence Act 1994 and
the Penal Code.

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