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DOMESTIC violence is often perceived as an issue affecting women, yet more than 1,000 men have come forward as victims of abuse in the first half of this year.

Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said while women remained the majority of victims, an increasing number of men were reporting incidents of abuse.

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"Although the number is smaller, we were informed that 1,017 male victims lodged reports of domestic violence between January and June.

"Most of them are aged between 36 and 45," said Noraini after launching an advocacy programme on women's well-being and domestic violence at Galasa Cardwell.

Present was Perak Women, Family Development, Community Welfare, Cooperatives and Entrepreneur Development Committee chairman Datuk Salbiah Mohamed.

Noraini said most cases of domestic violence went unreported due to the social stigma attached.

"Domestic violence is not limited to women. Men can also be victims. We've received reports from men who have experienced emotional and, in some cases, physical abuse."

Of the 1,017 male cases reported, 12 involved men with disabilities, predominantly in the same age group.

On domestic violence against women, Noraini said police statistics showed 2,751 cases during the same period, including 20 cases involving women with disabilities.

She added that many victims, regardless of gender, were often reluctant to come forward due to fear, emotional dependence or financial constraints.

"Some victims are afraid to report abuse because they rely on their spouse financially or emotionally.

"There have been instances where reports were filed but later withdrawn out of fear, especially when children are involved."

Police data shows that the five states with the highest number of domestic violence cases from January to June this year are Selangor (687 cases), Perak (653), Johor (440), Kedah (379) and Sabah (289).

"That is why we continue to raise awareness through advocacy programmes like this… to let victims know they are not alone. We are here to help.

"We offer emotional support and counselling services.

"Our counsellors are trained to sit with victims, listen and guide them through the process," she added.

Those in need of assistance can contact the 24-hour Talian Kasih hotline at 15999 or via WhatsApp at 019-2615999.