Gerakan insists that justice must be given to the victims of violence in the case of the Penan women exploitation issue.

Wanita secretary general Jayanthi Devi Balaguru regrets that the authorities do not provide the needful protection, care and counseling to the victims.

Jayanthi lamented that instead of proper protection, these victims are treated as if they are the accused.

“Any form of discrimination and violence that the victims have experienced must be taken up seriously,” stressed Jayanthi.

She also added that the authorities that issue the loggers’ permission should make the companies accountable for their workers.

“The authorities should issue additional conditions that the paths and trails the lorries ply deep into the settlement of these rightful owners’ lands, be developed into proper roads. More schools need to be built and special awareness programs for women be introduced,” said Jayanthi.

Jayanthi said that the needful and appropriate measures must be taken and immediate redress andjustice must be given to the victims of violence or any form of human rights violation.

“I also call for Information Centers be set up throughout the nation where young girls and women can seek educational and vocational training. They can seek shelter and psychological counseling, aid and support from a team of professionally trained staff,” suggested Jayanthi.

Jayanthi crucially explained that there is a need to raise men’s awareness of gender issues and endingviolence against women and children.

“There is a need for us to teach our sons and daughters effective ways to express their feelings of anger and frustration. We need to teach our sons and daughters that respect is just a minimum.” Jayanthi mentioned.