2007 04: Beware the sexual harassers

The Star online. News. Opinion. Wednesday April 4, 2007

RESEARCH has shown that sexual harassment is a major problem faced by not only women but also men.

However, based on what I know on the issue of sexual harassment, there is little if not no attention being paid to it.

The issue that is waiting to be raised is not sexual harassment in the work place as there have been many initiatives by the government and organisations to handle sexual harassment but the issue of sexual harassment in schools and institutions of higher learning.

In a nutshell, sexual harassment is an act which can be physical, visual or verbal and that can cause emotional trauma and distress.

What happens if an eight-year-old child (male or female) is sexually harassed?

He or she may not know what has happened. Most of these cases go unnoticed or only get noticed when sexual harassment turns to molest or rape.

But how many children actually have the courage to report a teacher or a fellow student? Do they know that they have rights if they are harassed?

The issue of sexual harassment is not any where near the issue of sex education.

I feel that the Education and Higher Education Ministry should start taking steps to create awareness on sexual harassment in schools and institutions of higher learning. Creating awareness is the best way of stemming sexual harassment in schools and institutions of higher learning.

In organisations or the public sector, there are guidelines that are in place to handle sexual harassment. Disciplinary action can be taken, then again, it all depends on the organisation.
Criminal charges can be filed but it is almost impossible to prove the harasser wrong beyond reasonable doubt.

The only way is via education and awareness programmes. Please do not forget we have children in schools and institutions of higher learning and they may be victims of sexual harassment or they can be harassers.

V. MANO,
Kajang