THE response to the introduction of women-only designated coaches on rail transportation systems has been encouraging. This initiative is a proactive effort.
The number of sexual harassment complaints since its introduction on the Kajang MRT route, for example, has decreased from an average of 3.2 cases to two cases per month.
Nevertheless, the issues related to its implementation have sparked a heated debate, especially on social media platforms. Some lament certain inadequacies of the current women-only designated coach.
Though the trains make more than 200 trips daily, the carriages designated for women have limited capacity, especially during peak hours, resulting in insufficient seats and strap hangers. The problem is worsened by a handful of male passengers riding on the women-only coach.
This occurs due to a lack of consistent supervision and monitoring by the authorities and despite the presence of CCTV cameras in the carriages and stations.
There has to be stricter enforcement by increasing the number of female security officers on the trains and at the stations to monitor the use of women-only coaches during operating hours. It is also crucial to empower officials to take immediate action against any violation of the rules.
Efforts to enhance existing policies and regulations must be continuous while intensifying public education and awareness campaigns on the importance of women-only coaches on all rail transport systems.
Awareness campaigns through mass media, educational institutions and digital platforms must emphasise the importance of respecting women's rights and how having women-only rail coaches helps to reduce incidences of sexual harassment.
These efforts should seek the cooperation of non-governmental organisations advocating for women's rights to expand the reach of the awareness and advocacy for women-only rail coaches.
DR NUR IZZI MD YUSOFF
and ISZYIANA SYUHADA ISMI
Department of Civil Engineering,
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia