Kuala lumpur: The government today introduced the Women's Referral, Intervention, Support, Information and Advocacy (PRISMAnita) initiative to improve access to support services for women, especially in tackling family-related issues such as domestic violence. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that PRISMAnita aims to offer more efficient, faster, and well-coordinated services, ensuring a victim-friendly approach and comprehensive support for women.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative is not limited to services under the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) but is also backed by related ministries and departments to ensure a holistic coordination of assistance for women. In line with the MADANI Government framework, Anwar stressed the importance of integrated efforts across ministries and departments to highlight the women's agenda during coordination meetings. PRISMAnita's offerings include counselling services, referrals, and case coordination with various stakeholders.
Anwar detailed the initiative at the 2026 International Women's Day celebration at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), attended by several dignitaries, including the Prime Minister's wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, among others. He elaborated on PRISMAnita's role in providing an information platform and service-matching, ensuring women in crisis receive timely assistance without bureaucratic delays. The advocacy hub under PRISMAnita will further educate on the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022 and the Domestic Violence Act 1994.
Additionally, Anwar announced a tax exemption incentive for corporate bodies through the Housewives Social Security Scheme (Lindung Kasih) to empower women as part of the National Women's Policy 2025-2030. This scheme, managed by Perkeso (Social Security Organisation), offers benefits such as medical support and rehabilitation for disabled individuals, with an annual contribution of RM120.
On International Women's Day, themed 'Empowering Women, Strengthening the Nation', Anwar highlighted the significance of empowering women in strengthening the family institution, a vital component of nation-building. While acknowledging the need for technological and digital growth, he stressed the importance of preserving religious, cultural, and traditional values through a strong family foundation.
During the event, Anwar presented several awards, including the Women Icon Award to Datuk Rugayah Abdul Majid, the Women-Friendly Company Award to Technocom Systems Sdn Bhd (Venture Group), and the Women Community Empowerment NGO Award to Women of Will, received by its president, Datin Goh Suet Lan.