Malaysia tribunal helps victims pursue harassment claims

Malaysia’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Tribunal is giving victims a faster route to seek redress, with successful cases now resulting in compensation as well as other formal remedies.

A dedicated route outside the civil courts

The Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment, known as TAGS, began accepting complaints for conduct occurring on or after March 8, 2024. It was created under the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 as a lower-cost alternative to a full civil court case.

A complaint can cover unwanted sexual conduct in verbal, non-verbal, visual, gestural or physical form. The system also covers online harassment.

Cases are being resolved

The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry said TAGS received 134 complaints in the first eight months of 2026, with 90 resolved. Officials say some victims have succeeded in obtaining compensation.

Claims are heard privately by a three-member tribunal panel. Parties represent themselves rather than using lawyers, and decisions are generally due within 60 days from the first hearing.

Compensation and other orders

When harassment is proven on the balance of probabilities, TAGS can order an apology, publication of an apology, attendance at a suitable programme, or compensation and damages of up to RM250,000.

A recent High Court decision upheld a RM60,000 tribunal award in a case involving the misuse of intimate photographs by a former partner. The ruling reinforced that the tribunal’s decisions can be enforced as court orders.

What it means for foreigners in Malaysia

Foreign residents who experience sexual harassment in Malaysia may be able to use TAGS, including for digital conduct, provided the incident falls within the tribunal’s jurisdiction. Keeping messages, images, dates and other evidence can be important when making a complaint.

September 11.2026