KUALA LUMPUR, 12 Feb 2009: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has expressed its worry that the faltering economy could take a toll on family harmony.
Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said although the situation was not alarming at the moment, domestic violence had risen in other countries as the economy was battered.
“For example, domestic violence in Britain had doubled last year. In our country, more than 2,000 cases of domestic violence were reported last year.
“We are aware that money problems could translate into tension and eventually affect relationships. We must find ways to prevent this from happening.
“This is part of our focus this year as we are worried that domestic violence might rise during the difficult period,” she told reporters during the Chinese New Year celebration organised by the ministry here today.
Ng said the ministry would seek the assistance of non-government organisations and the media to create awareness on the importance of family harmony in the face of the economic downturn.
“For men, they should set aside their ego and seek counselling if they are suffering from the economic stress.
“They should not aggravate the problem,” she said, adding that the ministry had engaged 50 male counsellors to help couples deal with stress. — Bernama
