Practical tips for young girls to confidently address violations

Sisters in Islam (SIS), has come up with three practical tips in uplifting young women to raise their voice and confidently address violations.

With the issue of period spot checks in the spotlight, the non-governmental organisation (NGO) believes these tips will empower young girls across Malaysia to act within their rights in any situation where violations are taking place. Here are the three practical tips:

You have the right to say NO

Young girls in the vulnerable stage of life need to be empowered to stand up to situations that violate their rights. Hence, should they face any types of violations, period spot checks included, they must not stay silent and pick up the courage to say no.

Rejecting violating instructions and forward aggressions is a sign of self-respect, showing demand of respect from others towards our body autonomy.

The denial of body autonomy is a violation of women and girls’ fundamental human rights that reinforces inequalities and encourages violence arising from gender discrimination.

Raise your discomfort / concern to trusted adults

Silence is not golden. In the event where the complexity of the situation is not something a young girl can solve on her own, it is a good idea to raise it to parents or any trusted adult.

It is important to note that seeking help does not equal being weak. When young girls speak up and get the right adults involved, it can help stop harassment and bullying. If the first adult you tell does not stop the harassment and bullying, keep telling other adults — counsellors, therapists, legal authorities, until it does stop.

Help is available – engage NGOs for further assistance

SIS together with Women’s Action Society (AWAM) and Pertubuhan Pembangunan Kendiri Wanita dan Gadis (Women:Girls), aims to ensure the Education Ministry remains accountable in addressing the issues of sexual harassment, body shaming as well as violation of personal autonomy among young girls holistically from the policy level down to the grassroots of every school in Malaysia.

Young girls should know they can reach out for help and assistance via these channels: AWAM Telenita: 016 237 4221 / 016 228 4221 ([email protected]) or the Women’s Centre for Change (WCC) Penang Hotline: 011-3108 4001, Seberang Jaya Hotline: 016-439 0698, available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm ([email protected])

Conclusion

SIS believes this issue begs a collective voice by Malaysians, be it parents with children, or young people who will be future parents.

“Our young girls have been shunned for years regarding the issue due to lack of awareness surrounding the issue. Together, we can inch closer towards combating violations against young girls and women” added Rozana Isa, Executive Director of SIS.

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