lifestyleThis Platform Enables M’sians To Make Sexual Harassment Complaints Without Fear. Here’s How
It is designed to be fast, accessible, and affordable for all Malaysians.
Published For Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development – 10 Oct 2025, 09:56 AM
#informative#kpwkm#lifestyle#sexualharassment#sponsored#sponsored:kpwkm:101025#womenCover image via KPWKM & krakenimages.com/Freepik
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When it comes to sexual harassment cases, many go unheard and unnoticed due to various reasons
Victims often aren’t sure of where to start. Even for those who want to speak up, the thought of going through lengthy court battles, hiring lawyers, and reliving the trauma feels overwhelming.
And most times, the fear of hassle and judgement keeps them from filing a case at all.
To tackle this issue, the Women, Family, and Community Development Ministry (KPWKM) established TAGS (Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment)
Established in 2024, TAGS is designed to be fast, accessible, and affordable, giving victims a dedicated platform to seek justice without the intimidating weight of the traditional court system.
So how exactly does TAGS work? Here’s all you need to know: 1. Sexual harassment can be both physical and non-physical
Under Malaysian law, sexual harassment is defined as any unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that offends, humiliates, or threatens a person’s well-being.
It covers a wide range of actions, including:
Verbal: Sexual jokes, comments, sounds, or questions. Non-verbal: Peeping at or recording photos or videos of a person in a private situation without consent. Suggestive looks or glances. Visual: Sending explicit messages or images online or in person. Gestural: Motions that imply sexual acts. Physical: Inappropriate physical contact that causes discomfort.
This broad definition ensures that sexual harassment is recognised in all its forms, not just the physical ones people often think of first. If you have encountered one or more of these actions, it means you have grounds to file a sexual harassment complaint with TAGS.
2. Filing a complaint with TAGS is designed to be easier Victim (complainant) fills out Complaint Form (Form 1) in four copies and pays a RM30 filing fee. The complainant must deliver Form 1 to the respondent (alleged harasser) via hand delivery, A.R. registered post, or affixing it to the respondent’s last known address. The respondent fills out Statement of Defence (Form 2) in four copies with an RM10 filing fee within 14 working days after receiving Form 1. Both parties submit supporting documents and bring originals to the hearing. All filings are done and paid by cash at the TAGS counter at KPWKM, Putrajaya. Complainants/respondents outside the Klang Valley or who face difficulties attending to matters at the TAGS counter may seek advice via email at [email protected] on how to file a complaint through post. An e-filing system is set to be introduced soon.
Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment (TAGS) Counter
Address: Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM), No.55 Persiaran Perdana Presint 4, 62100 Putrajaya
Operating hours:
Mon to Thur: 9am to 4.30pm (break from 1pm to 2pm)
Fri: 9am to 4.30pm (break from 12.15pm to 2.45pm)
3. Hearings are private, fast, and fair
Tribunal hearings differ significantly from court trials. Some key features include:
Both parties are notified at least 14 working days before the hearing. Neither party can be represented by lawyers, as the process is designed to be direct and less intimidating. Each side can present evidence, documents, and witnesses. Hearings are closed to the public and presided over by a three-member tribunal. Decisions are based on the balance of probabilities rather than criminal proof standards. Any decisions made are final, binding on both parties, and treated as court orders.
Importantly, decisions must be made within 60 days from the start of the hearing, ensuring complaints don’t drag on indefinitely.
4. Tribunal awards may include apologies, compensation, and mandatory programmes
If harassment is proven, TAGS can order one or more modes of legal recourse under Section 20 of Act 840, including:
A statement of apology from the respondent A published apology from the respondent (if sexual harassment was done in public) Compensation or damages up to RM250,000 Mandatory participation in relevant remedial programmes
5. Not complying with TAGS’ award is a criminal offence
If a respondent ignores the tribunal’s award within 30 days from the date it was issued, the aggrieved party has two avenues for enforcement:
1. Civil action
The award may be enforced through civil action by filing an application in court for the enforcement of the award. This process must be managed by the parties themselves.
2. Criminal action
Failure to comply with the award is a criminal offence under Section 21 of Act 840, with penalties including:
If compensation or damages were awarded, a fine of up to double the compensation amount, imprisonment for up to two years, or both If no compensation or damages were awarded, a fine of up to RM10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both If the offence continues after conviction, in addition to the above penalties, a fine of up to RM1,000 for every day or part of a day the offence continues
These provisions ensure that tribunal decisions carry real weight, and that victims receive legally enforceable rulings.
With TAGS, victims no longer have to stay silent or feel powerless
Through this platform, Malaysia is taking a strong stand against sexual harassment and ensuring victims have the avenue to seek justice and remedies in a fast, accessible, and affordable manner.
Learn more about TAGS by contacting them today:
24-hour helpline: 15999 WhatsApp: +6019-26-15999 Email: [email protected]
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