In the quest to solve the problem of violence against women, a group of university lecturers and social activists in Penang have embarked on a novel method by setting up a crisis centre for men.

The centres pro-tem committee chairperson Rohana Arifin told malaysiakini today the centre aims to understand marital problems from the male perspective.

It is hoped that such an understanding would lead to the formulation of solutions for both parties concerned, she explained.

Its a paradigm shift from victims to the perpetrators, said Rohana, a lecturer with Universiti Sains Malaysia.

The centre, which opened last week, will also provide temporary shelter for men with problems.

Statistics have shown that there has been an increase in cases of violence against women over the past few years.

However, the issue is usually addressed from a feminist viewpoint and the perpetrators are condemned.

Communication aspect

Besides its hope of finding solutions to this problem, Rohana said her centre will also encourage men to become more communicative in expressing their emotional and psychological needs.

She added the centre will provide individual and group counselling.

Other objectives, include urging men not to shy away from asking help and to educate the public on gender relations and possible ways to reduce violence against women.

We hope that men and women in our society will come forth to support us in our effort to reduce violence and to improve the quality of family life, said Rohana.