Challenges in Deterring Sexual Harassment and Abuse in Sports from a Malaysian Perspective

Bahiyah Abdul Hamid,Syarifah Fathynah Syed Sheikh Syarifah Fathynah Syed Sheikh,Fadilah Puteh Fadilah Puteh,Sharifah Syahirah Bt Sheikh,Wan Puspa Melati Wan Puspa Melati,Habibah Ismail

doi:10.31580/apss.v5i1.1104

Abstract

This article attempts to discuss the challenges related to the occurrence of sexual harassment in sports. There were many glaring cases of sexual harassment in sports reported in the media. Unfortunately, most of these cases end up without any redress for the victim or punishment against the perpetrator. Hence, the objective of this article is to analyse the challenges faced by sports practitioners and officers in preventing as well as handling a few recent cases of sexual harassment and abuse. A qualitative method has been applied and the primary data is collected through focus group sessions comprised of thirty-five (35) experts from sports institutions, enforcement officers, civil society representatives, athletes and related government agencies. The result depicts there are fifteen challenges involved in handling cases related to sexual harassment and abuse in sports particularly lack code of practice and unclear procedures on the person in charge. Since there is no specific rules related to sexual harassment, previous cases were investigated under penal code and made it impossible for the victims to receive protection and redress.

Highlights

Highlight 1: Fifhteen (15) challenges involved in handling cases related to sexual harassment and abuse in sports
Data collection was undertaken in April 2018, through focus group sessions consisting of thirty-five (35) experts
Responsible and well-trained people who are aware of the sensitivity of this issue posted in appropriate power positions, these experts feel that it will be hard to make sure that cases are being properly reported, handled and even far from being resolved

Summary

Introduction

Highlight 1: Fifhteen (15) challenges involved in handling cases related to sexual harassment and abuse in sports. In preventing and dealing with few recent cases of sexual harassment and abuse, what are the risk factors faced by sports practitioners and the community? 5. Data and Statistics 5.1 No data on cases related to sexual harassment and lack of research data.

Objectives

Results

Conclusion