She was denied menstrual pads, forced to eat expired bread, and, on some days, left with nothing but water with which to survive.

This harrowing case is just one of many that senior social worker N Mogana Devi has handled since 2019 in working with the Women’s Aid Organisation..

“She was insulted, spat on, and had to endure it for 10 years. The perpetrator would restrain or confine her inside the house,” Mogana told FMT in an interview.

“She was not allowed to engage with anybody and did not have access to a phone. It was disturbing and heartbreaking,” Mogana said.

Then “something clicked” on the importance of domestic violence assistance and services “which fuelled my passion towards this job”, she said.

Her “client” survived the horror she endured, and found a way out. With WAO’s help, she is now employed, living independently, and even giving back to society by offering free tuition classes for underprivileged children.

“She also participated in a lot of art exhibitions. It is so inspiring to see her pursue her dreams,” Mogana said.

The fight isn’t over

Morgana urged the government to fast-track the Social Work Profession Bill, which would give social workers formal recognition and better resources to support women in crisis.

The bill proposes to formally recognise the profession by establishing a council which would be responsible for regulating social workers through professional registration and certification.

The council will also set practical and educational standards, and encourage professional development.

“There are a lot of gaps to be filled, in terms of social work towards women and girls and we are working towards that,” she said.

She said the bill could manage the disparity in social workers’ wages in NGOs to continue helping those in need.

‘Speak up, don’t suffer in silence’

Mogana advised women who are going through domestic or gender-based violence to share their ordeal with a close friend or a neighbour, if they do not have access to a phone.

“The most important thing is they need to try to get themselves out of the situation first to get help and protect their own lives.

“After that, NGOs like WAO would assist them in making a police report,” she said.

• WAO offers multiple lifelines for survivors, including:
  Hotline: 03-3000 8858 (9am-5pm);
•  24-hour SMS/WhatsApp support (TINA – Think I Need Aid): 018-988 8058; and
•  Counselling, temporary shelter, and employment assistance to help survivors regain independence.

This year’s International Women’s Day carries the theme “Accelerate Action”, calling for urgent steps to uphold women’s rights, ensure equality, and empower survivors to reclaim their lives.

FMT wishes all women Happy International Women’s Day 2025.