Towards Safer Workplaces: Malaysian Sexual Harassment Law in Comparative Perspective

Muhammad Miqail Mohd Ridzuan

Abstract


ABSTRAK

Gangguan seksual di tempat kerja menimbulkan halangan besar terhadap keberkesanan organisasi dan kesejahteraan pekerja. Artikel ini menawarkan tinjauan mendalam mengenai undang-undang dan amalan semasa di Malaysia berkenaan gangguan seksual di tempat kerja, yang merangkumi Perlembagaan Persekutuan, Kanun Keseksaan, Akta Perhubungan Perusahaan 1967, dan Akta Kerja 1955. Skop Akta Anti-Gangguan Seksual 2022 yang bersifat progresif tetapi terhad serta pengaruhnya terhadap perlindungan di tempat kerja turut dibincangkan. Selain itu, artikel ini meneliti piawaian undang-undang antarabangsa seperti Konvensyen ILO No. 190 dan CEDAW bagi menekankan kaedah paling berkesan dalam menangani isu gangguan. Kajian kes dari Malaysia turut diketengahkan bagi menunjukkan ketidaksepadanan dalam pelaksanaan serta preseden undang-undang yang sedia ada. Artikel ini diakhiri dengan cadangan untuk memperkukuh perlindungan, termasuk pelaksanaan inisiatif kesedaran awam secara meluas, kebertanggungjawaban majikan, dan penetapan definisi undang-undang yang lebih jelas demi mewujudkan persekitaran kerja yang lebih selamat.

Kata kunci: Gangguan Seksual, Akta Anti-Gangguan Seksual 2022, Akta Kerja 1955.

ABSTRACT

Workplace sexual harassment presents substantial obstacles to organisational efficacy and employee well-being. This article offers an in-depth look of Malaysia's current laws and practices concerning workplace sexual harassment, which encompass the Federal Constitution, Penal Code, Industrial Relations Act 1967, and Employment Act 1955. The Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022's progressive yet constrained scope and its influence on workplace protections are also underscored in the discussion. Furthermore, the article delves into international legal standards such as ILO Convention No. 190 and CEDAW to underscore the most effective methods for addressing harassment. Case studies from Malaysia are examined to demonstrate the disparities in implementation and legal precedents. The article concludes with suggestions for enhancing protections, such as the implementation of expanded public awareness initiatives, employer accountability, and clearer legal definitions, in order to promote safer workplace environments.

Keywords: Sexual Harassment, Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022, Employment Act 1955


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References


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