Perceptions of Malaysian Indian Women on Domestic Violence in Malaysia: A Peek into the Indian Households

Abstract

This study investigates how Malaysian Indian women perceived and internalised domestic violence in Malaysia. Domestic violence is linked to gender issues that have disproportionately affected women compared to men in society. In traditional societies, women were frequently socialised to be subordinate to men in terms of roles, responsibilities and positions. These setbacks have contributed to the domestic violence issue among women. Domestic violence is a prime example of exploitation and discrimination against women in various aspects of their lives. Women have typically been passive and resisting domestic violence experiences to protect their household, male partners, children and society. The data for this study were gathered through in-depth interviews with 24 Malaysian Indian women, who were recruited through the purposive sampling technique. The qualitative data was analysed with Nvivo11 software. Three themes were identified that reflect participants’ perceptions of domestic violence in Malaysia. First, participants saw domestic violence as a normalising aspect of marital life. Second, participants saw domestic violence as a serious problem that affects women and their rights. Third, participants saw domestic violence as a sign of male identity to protect women. This study offers gender perspectives, such as the impact of masculinities, the patriarchal system and unequal power relationships in the household. It also explains the complexities of women’s socialisation in traditional households, as well as enlightening various stakeholders in Malaysia on the perceptions of Malaysian Indian women on domestic violence.