The Universiti Malaya student union (KMUM) in solidarity with young environmental activist Shakila Zen has condemned alleged threats and intimidation intended to stop her from speaking up.
KMUM in a statement said the reported intimidation should not have happened to Shakila or any other woman exercising their rights to freedom of speech and opinion in Malaysia.
"The act to threaten, intimidate and with elements of sexual harassment is highly extreme and unacceptable.
"Intimidation tactics with the intention to silence those who speak up is a criminal act, while sexual harassment targeted towards women activists must be eradicated by all parties," said the union.
It was reported yesterday that Shakila, 29, had received a package from an anonymous sender, on Aug 30, which contained a letter threatening an acid attack as well as a replica of a bloody severed hand.
Indecent poster
One day later, the cashier at a goldsmith shop received a text message via WhatsApp with sexual elements, and a picture attached about the spread of an indecent poster containing her personal details.
The harassment and the threats are believed to be linked to a recent viral TikTok video of her talking about the #Lawan rally on July 31.
KMUM said it seriously viewed the attack against women activists and Shakila.
"What has happened should not be a norm in society because it will restrict a woman's rights to speak up.
"KMUM is in solidarity with Shakila," said the union.
Speaking to Malaysiakini, Shakila yesterday said she was traumatised by the threats and had considered heeding her family's advice against continuing her activism work due to her safety.
North Klang Police deputy chief Mohd Khairi Shafie said police are on the hunt for an individual who delivered the threatening parcel to Shakira's family home in Kampung Saim, Klang, last Monday.
The case is being investigated under Section 507 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation by anonymous communication. - Mkini
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