By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Dec 2 — The state government has allocated RM200,000 for the launch of additional women’s shelters and their operations, said state executive councillor for women and family development Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud.
She said the Shelter Grant initiative, which was introduced in conjunction with the International Women’s Day against Violence (on November 25), is also aimed at combatting abuse against women.
“This grant can help existing shelters, as well as create an ecosystem with callers through the SELamat helpline. Applications for the grant can be made through Wanita Berdaya Selangor.
“Through this scheme, the aid can be used to improve facilities or manage operating costs when it concerns accommodating the survival of its residents,” Dr Siti Mariah said during a press conference at Dewan Annex in the State Secretariat Building, earlier today.
The councillor added the state government will also organise the Jingga Selangor running activity on December 18, as part of a sexual violence awareness campaign among women.
“At the same time, we encourage those suffering from domestic violence to apply for legal aid, as a step towards them getting their rights,” she said.
Selangor became the first state in Malaysia to provide free legal aid to low-income groups, with an allocation of RM1 million starting this year.
During the tabling of the 2023 Selangor Budget last week, Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said the provision of free legal aid will also be extended to syariah cases.
