“We have no records of repeat offenders and victims. Perhaps they have the list of offenders but are unable to release the information. We will apply (for access to build our own records) to better help women,” she told reporters after a meeting with her ministry staff today.

Earlier today, Kedah police chief Adzli Abu Shah said it was believed that a man arrested for allegedly assaulting his wife until she miscarried specifically chose civil servants as spouses because of their stable jobs and income.

He said investigations found that the 43-year-old suspect had been married nine times, and all his current and former wives worked in the public sector.

Adzli said the suspect was known to have a hot temper and had a criminal record for assault and threats.

Gaps in procedures, enforcement

Nancy said that during the meeting, her ministry reviewed weaknesses in standard operating procedures and legal processes to improve enforcement.

She said there were 5,507 reported cases of domestic abuse in 2023; 7,116 in 2024; and 7,391 in 2025.

However, underreporting continued to be a major obstacle as victims remained hesitant to report abuse because of fears of losing shelter for their children and financial support.

Nancy said survivor-led programmes had encouraged more victims to come forward.

“More victims have the courage to come forward now because they have heard the experiences of others,” she said.

She encouraged victims to call the ministry’s 24-hour Talian Kasih hotline at 15999 to report abuse.