In 2023, 3,361 sexual harassment and assault cases were recorded by the police. Of this number, 4 percent of the victims were male. Joshua - a survivor of sexual abuse - wrote in an opinion piece in Free Malaysia Today, “I often think of this 4% – these 135 men and boys – whose cases are on record, and marvel at their bravery.”

Joshua’s own bravery comes to light on this episode of Because Feelings Matter, where he opens up about two separate incidents of sexual abuse that he experienced as a child and teenager, and his struggle to overcome the feelings of shame and fear that silenced him for years.  

‘Because Feelings Matter’ is a series that brings you the stories of people and their mental health issues. These stories aim to normalise conversations about mental health, and to show that it’s okay to struggle emotionally and psychologically, but more importantly, to reach out for help. This series is produced in collaboration with Thrive Well.

*If you or someone you know is experiencing gender-based violence, you can contact these helplines: Telenita-AWAM (016-237 4221 / 016-228 4221), WAO (03-3000 8858 / Whatsapp 018-988 8058), WCC Penang (011-3108 4001 / 016-439 0698), Sarawak Women for Women Society (016-582 2660 / Whatsapp 013-804 4285), Sabah Women’s Action-Resource Group (088-280 200 / 011-2790 8020)

Image provided by Joshua