The Debate Surrounding Women-Only MRT Coaches

MRT Malaysia’s recent announcement of introducing female-only coaches to their trains, as a method to address sexual harassment and assault, has sparked heated debate online. Many have welcomed and celebrated the move. But there are also many others who criticise it. There are of course, regressive comments by some men who are saying things like “women always talk about equality but want special treatment.” On the other hand, there are arguments by women themselves who wonder if this move is disempowering, and protectionist and places the onus/responsibility on women to take specific measures than on the would-be perpetrators themselves. We unpack this with Daniella Zulkifili, President, Association of Women Lawyers.