This came after the anti-sexual harassment bill, which among others provides for the setting up of the tribunal, was passed yesterday in the Dewan Rakyat.

In a joint statement, the rights groups said ensuring “intersectional” and diverse representation in the tribunal would ensure it would effectively protect all persons who appear before it.

It said the whole intention of the legislation had always been to promote and protect the fundamental rights of all persons regardless of gender, race, religion or background.

The groups comprise the Joint Action Group for Gender Equality (JAG), ENGENDER and Young Women Making Change.

While the groups lauded the passing of the sexual harassment bill, it hoped that some critical features that were missing would be incorporated into the final Act to ensure the legislation achieved its intended outcome.

These include requiring organisations to address and prevent sexual harassment, and protection for victims who choose to step forward and seek redress.

After the tabling of the bill had been postponed several times over the last two years, the much-awaited legislation was finally passed yesterday following debates involving 26 MPs.

The first reading took place in December, while the second reading concluded on Tuesday.

The frequent postponements of the bill had led several parties, most notably women’s rights groups, to call for the government to table the bill as soon as possible.

Yesterday, women, family and community development minister Rina Harun said the ministry would ensure that only those who were most qualified and experienced in handling sexual harassment cases would be appointed to the tribunal once it is established under the Act.