Rape and Incest Cases Surge by 15% in Kelantan: The Alarming Reality

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Authorities in Kelantan have voiced their worries about the rising number of rape and incest incidents reported each year within the state, which predominantly affects the eastern coastal region. These reports also encompass instances categorized as statutory rape.

Having sexual intercourse with someone below the legal age, even if it is consensual, is regarded as statutory rape.

Upon disclosing the issue, Kelantan’s police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat stated on Wednesday (April 9) that there were 252 incidents documented in 2024, compared with 206 instances reported in 2023.
MStar reported
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Mohd Yusoff stated that cases between January and March of this year increased by 15.6 percent when compared to the corresponding months of the previous year.

There was a situation where an 11-year-old boy engaged in sexual activity with his 15-year-old cousin and resulted in her pregnancy.

“The incest cases in Kelantan is very concerning, when every year rape incidents involving minors are reported to be consensual and not by force,” he said.

Police investigations revealed that 98% of rape cases in Kelantan concern victims who are underage children.

Mohd Yusoff emphasized that the unveiling of rape incidents in Kelantan aimed at shedding light on the prevailing social issues within the state.

He mentioned that according to police studies, factors like familial disputes, romantic entanglements, inadequate religious instruction, and social influences from peers contribute to such inappropriate conduct.

This encompasses exposure to pornography as well as drug use, which are contributing elements leading to these instances.

Regarding this issue, Mohd Yusoff suggested that parents keep an eye on how much time their kids spend on mobile phones and limit excessive social activities.

There is worry that rape culture is leading minors to look for sexual partners.

Several individuals on social media platforms have voiced concerns that the widespread occurrence of rape cases might lead to potential social and possibly psychological problems among underage children who may then pursue relationships with the opposite gender prematurely.

Facebook user Iesya Toh addressed the recent surge in rape cases involving minors in Kelantan, pointing out that children seem to be engaging in seeking sexual relationships as part of what has unfortunately turned into a distorted “fad.”

In Malaysia, the legal age of consent for females is 16 years old. According to the Women’s Aid Organisation, a female under this age cannot legally agree to sexual activities.

In different scenarios concerning consent, an individual who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or is unconscious, lacks the capacity to provide consent. Similarly, having a mental disability or being otherwise incapacitated may impair one’s capability to comprehend and convey agreement.

This holds true when you hold a position of authority as well. Take for instance being the boss at your workplace; this power dynamic could influence an individual’s capacity to freely agree.

Should you or anyone you’re aware of be going through sexual abuse, assistance is within reach. Your security and self-worth are important. Within Malaysia, there are reliable avenues for reporting such incidents and obtaining support:

1. The Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO) provides assistance, refuge, and counseling.
   • Phone: +603-3000 8858
   • WhatsApp/SMS: +6018-988 8058
2. Talian Kasih – 24/7 hotline for abuse survivors
   • Phone: 15999
   • WhatsApp/SMS: +6019-261 5999
3. Pusat Bantuan Wanita (PBW) – Perlindungan dan nasihat percuma serta rahsia
   • Phone: +6012-439 0698

Sexual assault should likewise be reported at the nearest police station, or dial the 999 emergency number if you face any imminent threat.

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