Mandatory rehab urged for repeat offenders of domestic violence

 A Universiti Utara Malaysia academic says imprisonment alone is insufficient if offenders are not subjected to structured behavioural intervention.

An academic said that without rehabilitation, the risk of domestic violence perpetrators reoffending remains high. (Envato Elements pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 Domestic violence offenders, especially repeat offenders, should be required to undergo rehabilitation programmes after their release to prevent them from going back to their ways, says an academic.

Alif Jasni, a senior lecturer at Universiti Utara Malaysia, said imprisonment alone is insufficient if offenders are not subjected to structured behavioural intervention.

Mohd Alif Jasni.

“Repeat offenders must be required to undergo intervention programmes such as anger management and intensive counselling, and be monitored after their release,” said Alif, who has researched criminal justice, recidivism and social rehabilitation. “Without rehabilitation, the risk of reoffending remains high,” he told FMT.

He was commenting on efforts by the government to obtain a list of domestic violence offenders from relevant ministries and agencies, following the case of a woman who suffered a miscarriage after being assaulted by her husband.

The man is alleged to have fled with her jewellery and savings amounting to nearly RM50,000. Police later confirmed that the suspect is the same man in a case four years ago in Larkin, Johor, where he allegedly beat his wife into a coma.

Alif said laws should also be tightened by clearly distinguishing between first-time and repeat offenders. For repeat offences, he said, longer prison sentences without the option of lenient fines or easy bail could serve as a more effective deterrent.

Shahul Hamid Abdul Rahim.

Criminologist Shahul Hamid Abdul Rahim said prosecutors must take a more aggressive approach in seeking heavier penalties for repeat offenders of domestic violence.

He said that while existing laws are adequate, firm prosecutorial action is crucial to ensure offenders receive proportionate punishment.

“To reduce and prevent such offences, the courts and legal framework must reassess how domestic injury cases are handled. Prosecutors must seek harsher penalties because repeat offences show the offender has not been deterred,” he said.

Shahul said it was important that victims lodge police reports to enable investigations and allow cases to be brought before the courts.

He noted that many victims still refrain from reporting due to shame or pressure, allowing perpetrators to remain free and at risk of repeating their actions. “Without a report, investigations cannot proceed and the case cannot be brought to court,” he said. - FMT