Section 507A of the Penal Code of Malaysia is a new provision that was introduced in 2023 to criminalize stalking. The section defines stalking as “repeatedly by any act of harassment, intending to cause, or knowing or ought to know that the act is likely to cause, distress, fear or alarm to any person of the person’s safety.”
The section goes on to list some examples of acts that can constitute stalking, including:
Following a person in any manner or by any means
Communicating or attempting to communicate with a person in any manner or by any means
Loitering at the place of residence or business of a person
Giving or sending anything to a person in any manner or by any means
The section also specifies that the acts of harassment must be repeated on at least two occasions in order to constitute stalking.
The punishment for stalking under Section 507A is imprisonment for a term of up to three years, a fine, or both.
The introduction of Section 507A is a significant step in the fight against stalking in Malaysia. The section provides victims of stalking with legal recourse and sends a clear message that stalking is a serious crime.
Here are some additional things to note about Section 507A:
The section applies to both physical and online stalking.
The section does not require that the victim be aware of the stalker’s identity.
The section does not require that the stalker’s actions actually cause the victim to feel distress, fear, or alarm. It is sufficient that the stalker knows or ought to know that their actions are likely to cause these emotions.
If you believe that you or someone you know is being stalked, you should contact the police immediately. You can also seek help from a support group or counseling service.
