Govt to fine men entering women-only carriages

The government is drafting legislation to impose fines on men who enter women-only carriages on public transport, according to Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook.

The move is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and comfort of women passengers, who have raised concerns about harassment in mixed-gender spaces.

Protecting women on public transport

Loke emphasised the importance of respecting the designated women-only carriages, which are clearly marked with pink stickers on the interior and exterior of the carriages, as well as on platforms and doors.

“These carriages are intended to provide a safe and comfortable space for women to travel,” he said during a recent press conference.

Currently, there is no legal framework to penalise men who enter these carriages.

However, the proposed legislation will change this, enabling fines to be imposed on those who disregard the rules.

Loke also mentioned that auxiliary police at railway and MRT stations will be on duty more frequently to monitor compliance and ensure that men do not encroach on these women-only spaces.

The introduction of women-only coaches on Malaysia’s Kajang MRT line in September 2023 was a direct response to growing concerns from female commuters about sexual harassment in crowded trains.

According to Minister Loke, the initiative has already led to a reduction in complaints.

“In the first quarter of 2023, we received eight complaints of harassment; in the second quarter, 11; and in the third quarter, eight.

Since implementing the women-only coach, complaints have dropped to three,” he said, noting that this decrease occurred despite an increase in ridership.

Expanding women-only Carriages

Discussions started earlier this year between the Ministry of Transport and Prasarana regarding the potential expansion of women-only carriages to other public transport lines in the Klang Valley.

Loke highlighted that 62 per cent of passengers on Rapid KL lines are women, which underscores the importance of this initiative.

“Men should support this initiative as responsible members of society. We want our mothers, sisters, and wives to be safe,” Loke stated.

To further enhance security, regular announcements are made at stations reminding female commuters to use the women-only carriages and encouraging them to report any incidents of sexual harassment.

Volunteers and auxiliary police regularly patrol trains and stations, and closed-circuit television cameras monitor these carriages to prevent violations.

The government’s proactive approach to enhancing the safety of women on public transport demonstrates a commitment to addressing the concerns of female passengers.

By imposing fines on men who enter women-only carriages, the authorities aim to reinforce the importance of respecting these spaces and ensuring a safe environment for all.

For more information and updates on the legislation, commuters are encouraged to follow announcements from the Ministry of Transport.