Lawyer: Stalking and Harassment After Divorce Must Be Severely Punished to Protect Victims

Lawyer: Stalking and Harassment After Divorce Must Be Severely Punished to Protect Victims
Date: June 8, 2024

Lawyer Khoo Ai Theng has spoken out strongly against the ongoing issue of post-divorce harassment, urging for stricter legal action to protect victims who continue to be stalked or emotionally abused by their former spouses.

“Divorce marks the legal and personal end of a relationship. No one has the right to continue interfering with or threatening the other party simply because they were once married,” she said, emphasizing that such behavior constitutes not only a violation of personal privacy but may also amount to criminal offenses under current laws.

Khoo stressed that many victims suffer in silence due to fear, social pressure, or a lack of awareness about their legal rights. She encouraged those affected to document incidents and report them to the authorities promptly.

“Victims should not hesitate to seek protection through legal channels. Courts can issue restraining orders, and perpetrators should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” she said.

In addition to calling for more robust enforcement, Khoo urged the government and legal bodies to establish stronger protective mechanisms—such as expanding the use of restraining orders, improving monitoring systems, and offering both legal aid and psychological support to victims.

She also highlighted the importance of public education on this issue. “It’s essential for society to understand that emotional abuse, stalking, or any form of harassment after divorce is not acceptable—and it is punishable.”

“Through the legal system, we must ensure that survivors are empowered and shielded from further harm,” Khoo concluded.

Newspaper Link: Kwong Wah E-News