Proposals and suggestions

(1) Time taken to apply for a Protection Order

Time is the most important factor in applying for a temporary protection order. The law should be amended so that it requires less time to obtain an order, for example, waiving the rule that a welfare officer must be present for the application proceedings is because the victim is in imminent danger and any delay could have grave consequences for the victim.

The sole purpose of the law is to reduce the number of violent acts happening in the home. If this is not happening, then the law should changed so that domestic violence can be effectively be controlled and reduced.

(2) Establishment of family centers

Prevention of domestic violence can start from with government taking the initiative to set up more centers which may be called family centers. Activities which help to promote greater understanding between husbands and wives should be organized. Experienced counseling personnel should take immediate steps to visit families which encounter relationships problems. Sharing of ideas among many families can also build relationships so that they extend cooperation and help in the event of any difficulty faced by any particular family.

(3) Effort by the private sector

Understanding is an important component in any relationship. Beside the government, all private companies should be required to organize regular family activities for their staff. This will not only improve relationship between a married couple but let them have a place to relax to ease unnecessary tension arising from suppressed emotions and feelings. Such gathering will make the husbands more family-centred and minimize the incidence of extra marital affairs. A meeting of all staff members and their spouses also will help promote understanding in the work place and eventually increase productivity for the company.

Participation by employees must be made compulsory and incentives should be provided. These activities must be carried out regularly and to a certain standard harmony not only among staff but also between their families.

Experts in marriage counseling can be invited to give talks about ways to promote family life and bring up children. The success of any activity depends on its content and quality, otherwise it will not achieve the desired result.