Youths Encroach “Women Only Coach”; KTMB & APAD discuss legislation

It took a group of rude, uncivilised youths with poor upbringing and a 72-year-old woman standing up for what is right to finally open the authorities' eyes.

The issue of male passengers trespassing and taking up space on a "Women Only Coach" coach is not new, as this problem has often been highlighted on social media. However, authorities have finally taken notice and are now considering legislative measures that could lead to fines or even jail terms in extreme cases to deter male passengers from entering these coaches.

Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) and the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) are reportedly discussing the legislation surrounding the "Women Only Coach”, as well as enhancing enforcement operations and awareness campaigns, stated the New Straits Times.

The turning point was a recent incident highlighted by TV presenter and social media personality Sheahnee Iman Lee, in which her 72-year-old Australian mother was reportedly harassed and insulted by a group of male youths in the women's coach of a KTM Komuter train.

According to Sheahnee, her mother who was heading to KL from Klang found the boys in the women’s coach and reminded them that it was a women’s only coach. The boys responded rudely and threateningly, saying: "We are Malaysian!" and "This is my country!"

Sheahnee added that it would be a while before her mother feels safe enough to ride the train again. However, she thanked KTM for reaching out and expressed hope that they will improve moving forward.

KTMB has since announced that they will more frequently mobilise auxiliary police at stations to ensure that men do not encroach on women's coaches. Additionally, they are calling on the public to help remind any male passengers who may accidentally enter these coaches of their importance and sensitivity for the benefit of all passengers.

KTMB also advised passengers to use the intercom button or contact KTMB's auxiliary police at 03-2263 1194 in case of any emergencies.