The Joint Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG) made several demands, such as tabling a comprehensive sexual harassment bill, and proceeding with the implementation of a national strategy plan to handle the causes of child marriage.

The others are:

• Amend the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code to criminalise stalking;
• Adopt the Gender Equality Act drafted by JAG;
• Amend the Employment Act 1955 to prevent discrimination based on gender, race, religion, pregnancy and marital status;
• Amend Article 8(2) of the Federal Constitution to include disability as a ground for non-discrimination; and
• Amend Article 15(2) to ensure automatic conferment of citizenship to children born to Malaysian mothers outside the country.

“As Malaysia awaits its ninth prime minister, JAG reiterates that the leadership, especially the minister of women, family and community development, must speak up to protect the interests and rights of women, children, people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups,” it said in a statement, adding that a “competent” minister must be appointed to ensure their demands are met.

“We have had enough of these groups being sidelined amidst political tussles. We remind the incoming government that it has the ultimate duty to serve all Malaysians.”

JAG said the new Cabinet and GLCs must also have 30% women in leadership roles.

“We want a public commitment from the new government that it will ensure accountability and provide adequate access to seek redress to those facing violence, discrimination and inequality.”