SIBU: The recent circulation of a social media post involving an alleged case of prolonged domestic abuse here has drawn public attention.
In response, Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, expressed deep concern and said he is closely monitoring the situation.
“I must stress that all forms of domestic violence – whether physical, verbal, emotional or psychological – are serious social issues that must not be ignored or treated as private family matters.
“The circumstances reflected in the case are deeply distressing and warrant broader public awareness,” he said in a statement on Thursday (Jan 22).
Tiang, who is also Pelawan state assemblyman, revealed that Sibu will soon establish a Community Social Support Centre (CSSC), which will function as a one-stop integrated social intervention and referral hub to support individuals and families facing domestic violence, family crises and other social challenges.
According to the proposed framework, he said the CSSC will serve as a central platform for social awareness programmes, advocacy initiatives, mental health support and community recovery efforts.
He pointed out that it will also provide basic intervention services, case management and referrals to relevant government agencies, healthcare institutions and non-governmental organisations.
In addition, he added, the centre will include temporary transit accommodation for victims of domestic violence, offering a safe and protected environment during crisis situations.
Other planned components include women empowerment and skills training programmes, community mental health services, youth and children activity spaces, a community food bank, soup kitchen initiatives and social enterprise facilities, aimed at strengthening long-term community resilience.
Tiang urged members of the public who are experiencing domestic violence – including physical abuse, verbal threats, psychological intimidation or other forms of harm – to seek help without delay.
“Assistance can be obtained through hospital One Stop Crisis Centres (OSCC), the Talian Nur hotline at 15999, the Social Welfare Department, the police or by contacting the Pelawan Service Centre at 012-760 9822,” he added.
