KUALA LUMPUR: The National Union of Bank Employees (NUBE) has applauded the efforts of Women, Family, and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri in addressing weaknesses in the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 (Act 840) and, if necessary, introducing stricter laws.
In a statement, NUBE secretary-general J. Solomon said it is timely that organisations are held accountable for acts of sexual harassment occurring within the workplace, not just the individuals responsible.
“This would undoubtedly lead to greater accountability and a much safer and healthier work environment for all,” he added.
According to national police reports from 2023, a total of 3,361 sexual harassment and assault cases were recorded across the country.
Solomon also expressed NUBE’s support for Nancy’s call for victims of sexual harassment to report their cases to ensure prompt action and not suffer in silence.
“We urge all our members to take this matter seriously. Do not remain silent or suffer alone. Report any such incidents, and NUBE will stand with you to bring them to the authorities to ensure justice prevails,” he added.
NUBE also commended the police for their swift action in completing the investigation of a bank operations officer in Bercham, Ipoh, who is accused of sexually harassing a female colleague.
“We thank Perak police chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris for acting promptly on the report by our union member, and we are confident that justice will prevail,” Solomon stated.
He noted that NUBE remains committed to ensuring justice and promoting a safe, respectful workplace for all employees. The union is also willing to work with the ministry to achieve its objectives.
Recently, the proposal to amend the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 has been deemed necessary to enhance its effectiveness in preventing incidents of sexual harassment in the workplace.
Nancy has proposed that the Act be amended to address gaps in holding organisations accountable for misconduct.
“We need to amend the existing legislation to ensure that organisations can be held liable if they fail to address sexual harassment cases,” she said recently.
