Using affectionate terms such as “sayang” or “darling” and sending messages with these terms through WhatsApp can be considered as sexual harassment in the workplace, according to Noraini Roslan, the president of Klang Municipal Council (MPK). She emphasized that the council will not tolerate such acts of sexual harassment and considers flirting with colleagues using these terms as verbal sexual harassment and unwelcome advances. These behaviors are deemed as an offense based on the notice on sexual harassment that was posted on the local council’s notice board, in accordance with the regulations of the Public Services Commission (PSC) and MPK’s Conduct and Discipline Rules of 2023.
Furthermore, Noraini stated that MPK’s Conduct and Discipline Rules of 2023 will enforce disciplinary actions against such behaviors. Physical actions such as touching, holding, groping, kissing, and gently punching co-workers on the shoulder are also considered as physical sexual harassment.
Sending sexually explicit messages, photographs, or videos through text or forwarding them is considered as visual sexual harassment. Noraini disclosed that MPK has dealt with multiple cases of sexual harassment, which were addressed professionally. Employees involved in such cases were provided with counseling, and staff members were transferred to different departments or units as a preventive measure and to ensure a more comfortable working environment.
Noraini encouraged MPK’s staff to report incidents of sexual harassment, bullying, or harassment to the Integrity Department of MPK, promising that appropriate actions will be taken and the employee will be supported.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
