AWAM combats Gender-Based Violence (GBV) such as rape, sexual harassment and domestic violence while envisioning and working towards substantive equality while recognising the unique diversity, intersectionality, and play of power, privilege and other environmental factors.

UR VISION

AWAM envisions a just, democratic, and equitable society where all persons, in particular women, are treated with respect and are free from all forms of violence and discrimination. Based on feminist principles, we seek to achieve our vision by building a movement that informs, connects and mobilises towards:

• securing women’s rights,
• bringing about gender equality,
• building capacities for women’s empowerment and social transformation ; and,
• supporting women in crisis.

OUR MISSION

AWAM operates on the strength of a dynamic and dedicated group of members and staff who shape the direction and policies of the organization. As a collective, AWAM strongly believes in having an inclusive participatory and empowering organisational culture.

We are guided in our work and decision making by five core values:

• Collectivism
• Compassion and Respect
• Courage
• Equality and Justice
• Integrity

How We Work

AWAM is membership-led organization whereby members do participate in the decision-making process at various levels – individual, committee and the collective. The highest level of decision-making occurs at the WC or Working Collective level which comprises of both the Executive Council, EXCO members and member-staff.

However, in 2018, we noted that member participation in committees have dropped significantly which eventually led to a shift in the organizational practices. Today, program work is handled by the Program Officer with the occassional support from members.

TELENITA HELPLINE

AWAM provides services tailored to address the immediate needs of victims of violence. There are two types of services that we provide:

• FREE WELL-BEING COUNSELING for victims of
  gender-based violence, and
• FREE LEGAL INFORMATION based on the victim’s unique circumstances

The TELENITA helpline began as an outreach project to help women in crisis who did not know where to go to find out information or identify the necessary steps to take in order to remove themselves from a harmful or violent environment. When we began this initiative in 1990, it involved para-counselors dispensing advice and support to victims of violence. However, in September 1994, we decided to add on additional services in the form of legal information and this was made possible through a partnership with the Legal Aid Clinic at the Bar Council.

Answering Common Questions

Do you have questions about our services?

Here are some commonly asked questions  about our services – particularly on PRIVACY, who can become our CLIENTS (Are men included?), and more.

Supporting Survivors

We’re often asked how you can help a friend or family member you suspect is being abused.

Your support is an immeasurable source of encouragement and confidence to a friend in need. You can ease the isolation and loss of control by listening, providing information and helping your friend to explore their options.

Safety

The most dangerous time for survivors is when they attempt to leave a dangerous situation and/ or toxic relationship. Here, we have listed some steps that you may want to take o protect yourself.

Directory of Services

To victims and survivors outside the Klang Valley (Lembah Klang), here is a list of service providers (counselling, one-stop crisis centres, legal aid and shelters) that can help.

• Counselling Services in Malaysia
• One stop crisis centre
• Legal Aid
• Shelters