THE Penang Goes Orange 2025 (PGO 2025) campaign aims to serve as a platform for public education and collective action amid a worrying surge in domestic violence and sexual harassment cases across the country.
State Social Development, Welfare and Non-Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said the initiative, now in its 12th consecutive year, underscores the state government’s commitment to combat gender-based violence through awareness and community involvement.
“Domestic violence cases in Malaysia climbed to 7,116 in 2024, an increase of nearly 50% compared to the previous year. In Penang alone, 915 cases were recorded in 2023,” she said at the campaign’s launch at Komtar today.
Lim noted that sexual harassment cases also rose from 1,752 in 2023 to 2,235 last year, describing the figures as deeply concerning.
“These are only the reported cases. I believe the actual numbers are likely much higher, as many victims remain silent out of fear or social stigma,” she said.
This year’s campaign theme, “Break the Silence: Jangan Dok Diam!”, calls on the public to reject the culture of silence and take an active role in protecting those affected by abuse.
“Far too often, people witness violence but choose to stay quiet. We want to end this culture as everyone has the power to act and to report to the relevant authorities,” Lim said.
She reminded the public that the Child Act 2001 mandates the reporting of child abuse, while the Whistleblower Protection Act 2010 protects those who report wrongdoing in good faith.
The campaign will take place on Dec 13 at Padang Kota Lama, where Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow is expected to be present at 8pm alongside other distinguished guests.
Lim hoped to see Padang Kota transformed into a sea of orange light, symbolising the courage of Penangites to speak up.
She also expressed appreciation to the Penang Women’s Development Corporation (PWDC) for spearheading the campaign and maintaining strong collaboration with government and community partners.
PWDC chief executive officer Datuk Ong Bee Leng hoped that the campaign would create public awareness and nurture a caring society.
“There will be various activities during the event to promote awareness and instil a sense of compassion within the community,” she said.
Ong expressed hope that the campaign would help curb the rising number of domestic violence cases in the state.
The public may register by scanning the QR code below. A participation fee of RM30 per person includes an exclusive campaign T-shirt and an orange lightstick.
For more information, visit www.pwdc.org.my
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting