International Day of Non-Violence

2 October, which is the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, is chosen as International Day of Non-Violence by the UN General Assembly in 2007 with the aim of getting a common stance of all countries in opposing violence of all forms. As such, on this day all people around the world should personally take the lead to reject violence in order to build a just, peaceful and prosperous world together. In commemorating this special day, I urge all victims of domestic violence and eyewitnesses not to condone such acts but to bravely come forward to report the abuse incidents so that action can be taken against the culprits. Unfortunately, most women have chosen to compromise and suffer in silence. Their silence will only make the matter worse. According to the latest report from the United Nation, more than 70% of women around the world have experienced domestic and sexual violence, 50% of which are minors under sixteen where the culprits were mostly victim’s husband or brothers. The abuse becomes more violent mainly because women choose to tolerate the violent act of their husband or relatives. The government has in last year amended the Domestic Violence Act 1994 to include psychological abuse in its definition of domestic violence. This clearly shows the government’s resolve in tackling such cases, including providing various reporting avenues such as report can be made in any police station. And the relevant authority will within 24 hours apply to the court to obtain a protection order for the victim. Victim who can’t return home and is financially incapable may be provided temporary shelter and financial assistance by Department of Social Welfare. Injured victims of domestic violence can also seek help at One Stop Crisis Centre in any government hospital, where they will be given medical attention as well as assistance by Department of Social Welfare to make a police report. Those who are too afraid to come forward can contact the abuse hotline 15999 and officers from the nearest Department of Social Welfare will come to their aid together with the police. Irrespective of state sanctioned or cultural and customary violence including violence against women and minors, everyone should start the change from within oneself, family, school and workplace so that this social ill can be eradicated. In this International Day of Non-Violence, I wish all people around the world, with the inspiration and courage from Mahatma Gandhi, will unite as one to reject division and hatred, uphold the truth and justice, and stand together as brothers and sisters to build a world of justice, peace and prosperity.