Deputy women, family and community development minister Noraini Ahmad said 73% (2,751 cases) of the victims were women, and 27% were men.

The highest number of cases was reported in Selangor with 687, followed by Perak (653), Johor (440), Kedah (379), Sabah (289), Sarawak (277), Kelantan (234), Penang (157), Terengganu (146), Negeri Sembilan (141), Kuala Lumpur (120), Pahang and Melaka (103 each), and Perlis (39).

Noraini said greater awareness has led to more victims stepping up to seek help.

“I urge all victims not to remain silent until violence escalates to the point of regret or tragedy,” Bernama reported her as saying after launching an advocacy programme on domestic violence in Ipoh today.

She said Perak recorded 842 domestic violence cases last year, making it one of the top five states for such incidents.

Noraini also said her ministry is committed to enhancing policies, laws and support systems for victims of domestic violence.

“Our priority is to raise awareness, empower women to speak out, and create safe spaces for support and recovery,” she said.