A literary figure has been accused of sexual harassment involving several female writers, with allegations that he repeatedly sent them unsolicited affectionate messages, including graphic symbols, declarations of love, and expressions such as “muah”.
Two young writers - Sarah Ross and Maghfirah TMZ - have lodged police reports and shared their experiences on social media.
Sarah claimed the incidents occurred several years ago, but she chose to remain silent at the time to avoid escalating the matter.
Initially, she believed the messages might have come from a fake account.
However, after checking the Facebook account of the individual concerned, she became convinced it belonged to the alleged perpetrator.
Based on her account, several other female writers have also claimed to have received sexually suggestive messages from the literary figure.
Sarah subsequently filed a police report with the Bukit Baru police station in Malacca on June 28.
She also urged other victims to come forward so that a comprehensive investigation can be carried out.
“May all victims have the courage to make police reports. Do not normalise bullying behaviour. You are not the victim, so you do not understand the emotional stress and trauma experienced by victims.
“Do not act as judges, pointing fingers at victims. Offer empathy, not sarcasm or blame,” she said.
‘Don’t support vile behaviour’
Maghfirah lodged a police report on June 29 but did not disclose its contents.
“Sexual harassment on social media and sexual grooming are serious crimes, not trivial gossip. Some victims suffer mental health impacts and lifelong trauma.
“Even if it did not happen to you, do not use this as a licence to support vile and indecent behaviour,” she said.
When contacted by Malaysiakini, both writers declined to provide further details for now beyond what was shared on social media.
Thorough probe
A writers’ association has called for a thorough investigation and firm action against the perpetrator.
The Indian Writers Organisation (Kavyan) described the allegations as serious since they involved an individual regarded as a literary figure, advocate of literature, and workshop mentor.
Kavyan, founded by renowned writer Uthaya Sankar SB, expressed support for Sarah and Maghfirah’s courage in lodging police reports.
“The national literary world should be a safe space for anyone to participate without fear of exploitation, including sexual misconduct and sexual harassment,” Kavyan said.
It also alleged that some members of the literary community had urged victims not to expose the alleged behaviour in order to protect the reputation of the literary world.
“Such views, positions and advice actually empower predators by asking victims to stay silent,” the statement added.
The literary figure, when contacted by Malaysiakini yesterday, denied the allegations and said he was unaware of the claims raised.
DBP responds
Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) said it takes any allegations that could affect individuals’ well-being and harmony within the literary community seriously.
“We are therefore leaving the matter entirely to the authorities to conduct investigations and take appropriate action in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
DBP also urged all parties not to speculate or spread unverified information until investigations are completed.
“As an institution responsible for elevating language and literature, DBP will continue to uphold an ecosystem of literature grounded in integrity, professionalism, mutual respect and responsibility,” it added. - FMT
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