The Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill was finally approved today by the Dewan Rakyat after it was proposed in 2011. The legislation provides victims with a place to submit claims against their attackers through the establishment of a special tribunal, expanding their legal recourse beyond provisions in already-existing Malaysian statutes such as the Penal Code and Employment Act.

Datuk Seri Rina Mohd Harun, Minister of Women, Family and Community Department wrapped up her speech during the debate session with, "Sexual harassment must not be considered petty and unimportant as it has negative impact on the victims, especially mentally, and leaves them with trauma that could disrupt their daily routine, productivity and wellbeing."

"The anti-sexual tribunal has the authority to decide the cases, namely, ordering a statement of apology by the respondent to the complainant and up to RM250,000 compensation awarded to the latter for damages and losses."

It was understood that any award by the tribunal is final and binding; deemed as a court order that must be enforced by parties in the proceedings, according to Clause 22.

Underage individuals or persons with disabilities on the other hand, may be represented by a guardian or a friend and the tribunal may impose any condition deemed necessary to ensure that the other party would not be in a position to face substantial loss due to this.

All proceedings before the tribunal must be held behind closed doors and are off-limits to the public. The tribunal shall make a decision on the award within 60 days from the first proceeding and the ruling must be meted out with grounds for or against it.

"We will not stop at gazetting this bill. We will improve this act based on current needs and situations. It will be more practical for improvements to be made after seeing how the law operates," Rina said.