An Overview of Laws on Domestic Violence in Malaysia - How can you protect yourself if you are experiencing domestic violence?

Domestic violence is not limited to physical blows; verbal abuse, threats, and “cold violence” (emotional abuse/neglect) also constitute domestic violence.

Malaysian law provides specific procedures to protect victims of domestic violence. Here is a clear explanation 👇

1️⃣ What is domestic violence?

Type | Examples
Physical violence | Beating, causing physical injury
Psychological violence | Verbal abuse, threats, intimidation
“Cold violence” | Prolonged neglect, emotional torment
📌 Protected persons: Spouses, ex-partners, children, family members, and disabled persons living in the household.

2️⃣ What are the differences between the three types of protection orders?

Type of Protection Order | Validity Period | How to Obtain
Emergency Protection Order (EPO) | 7 days | Apply to the Welfare Department
Interim Protection Order (IPO) | During the investigation | Apply after filing a police report
Protection Order (PO) | 12 months (renewable) | Apply to the court

3️⃣ What are the consequences of violating a protection order?

Violating the court order (without violence) → Imprisonment for 6 months OR a fine of RM2,000

Violating the order using violence → Imprisonment for 1 year OR a fine of RM4,000

4️⃣ What should you do if you are a victim of domestic violence?

1️⃣ Ensure your safety and leave the dangerous environment
2️⃣ Go to the hospital for a medical examination (to preserve evidence)
3️⃣ File a police report (to initiate an investigation)
4️⃣ Apply for a protection order (EPO/IPO)
5️⃣ Contact a lawyer

⚠️ Medical examination, filing a police report, and applying for a protection order—it is recommended to do these concurrently.

5️⃣ Can compensation be claimed?

✅ Yes, through civil proceedings.

Claims can be made for: physical injury, psychological damage (requires a specialist’s report), and property loss.

6️⃣ What should you do about emotional abuse or the “silent treatment”?

Preserve evidence: WhatsApp logs, voice messages, and call recordings. Consult a lawyer to assess whether the behavior meets the legal definition of “emotional abuse.”

4 Key Tips from Lawyers

1️⃣ Do not tolerate it; domestic violence follows a pattern of “zero or countless” occurrences (it rarely happens just once).
2️⃣ Preserve evidence (medical reports, police reports, chat logs).
3️⃣ Find a lawyer experienced in domestic violence cases.
4️⃣ Clearly specify the terms when applying for a protection order (e.g., a 50-meter exclusion zone, police authorization to arrest without a warrant).

The law is your support system. You are not alone.

⚠️ Disclaimer: This content provides general information on Malaysian law and is for reference only. In an emergency, please contact the police or social welfare services immediately.