Kuala lumpur: The government, through the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), is actively implementing the Lelaki Budiman Negara Programme to strengthen family institutions and enhance human capital development. Deputy Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad announced this initiative, which aligns with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), focusing on developing and implementing an education module to empower men as responsible husbands, fathers, and members of society.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the programme is considered timely, as statistics show men are also victims of domestic violence. Data from the police (PDRM) indicated that there were 1,778 male victims recorded in 2022, which decreased to 1,213 cases in 2023, but increased again to 1,865 cases in 2024. For 2025, up to July alone, there have been 1,183 cases. Dr Noraini shared these figures during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat, responding to Dr Ahmad Fakhruddin Fakhrurazi (PN-Kuala Kedah), who inquired about the effectiveness of LPPKN’s family development programmes in reducing abuse risk against men.
The effectiveness of these programmes is evaluated using the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model, focusing on knowledge, practice, and behavioral change. Findings up to the second quarter of this year reveal that over 90 percent of participants reported improved knowledge, nearly 90 percent applied what they learned, and almost 70 percent demonstrated positive behavioral changes. These results suggest that programmes like Parenting at Work and other LPPKN initiatives have enhanced family literacy, encouraged mutual respect between partners, and reduced the risk of abuse, including against men.
Addressing a supplementary question on approaches to reach male victims, Dr Noraini acknowledged the challenges as many men hesitate to come forward due to shame, fear, and stigma. She emphasized the importance of societal empathy and non-judgmental attitudes, stating that LPPKN continues to strengthen early intervention measures such as counselling. Participants can choose to speak with either a male or female counsellor, with male counsellors often making victims feel more comfortable sharing their issues.
Dr Noraini also reminded victims that they can seek help through Talian Kasih 15999, adding that the government’s domestic violence awareness campaign is inclusive, recognizing that abuse affects both men and women.